Simplot prides itself on operating transparently and with the highest level of integrity. We fully comply with the mandatory labelling regulations and requirements of the Australian Consumer Law’s country of origin food labelling requirements.
The ACCC contacted us to discuss the labelling of fish products being manufactured at our Kelso, New South Wales, manufacturing plant. Due to Australia’s topography, we don’t have large-scale white fish biomass in the waters off our coast. Therefore, Simplot procures sustainable seafood from the best fishing areas in the world. Then at our Kelso plant, we shape it into uniformed sizes, coat, par fry, freeze and package it ready for distribution to our customers. All of this using Australian labour and operated within the high demands of Australian food safety and quality standards.
Through discussion with ACCC, it was concluded that Simplot’s interpretation of the technical definition and the amount of processing being undertaken at our Kelso plant did not constitute it being labelled as ‘Made in Australia’. In working through this technical definition with the ACCC, we determined a need to change the labelling on 31 of our retail frozen seafood products to ‘Packed in Australia’ and subsequently changed these products’ labelling.
Simplot Australia has a proven long-standing track record of commitment to the Australian food industry for its quality of produce, reliability of supply, and price competitiveness. Wherever practical, Simplot Australia’s preference is to use Australian grown ingredients and Australian suppliers to meet consumer demands.
Simplot Australia is also a significant employer in Australia, providing jobs for more than 2,000 employees throughout the country. The company has manufacturing facilities in Ulverstone, Devonport, Echuca, Bathurst, Kelso, and Flemington.
In addition, Simplot Australia supports Australian agriculture and manufacture through its use of Australian partners and suppliers, including transportation and distribution, cold store providers, farmers, ingredients and packaging suppliers.
