Anomalies

For the purposes of the Health Star Rating system, an anomaly occurs when:

  • the calculated star rating for a product: 
    • is inconsistent with the Australian Dietary Guidelines (ADGs)/New Zealand Eating and Activity Guidelines (NZEAGs); 
      or
    • when used to make comparisons within a food category or across comparable food categories would mislead consumers; 
      and
  • the matter was not substantially considered during the 2019 formal five-year review of the HSR system (if new information or developments have occurred the matter can be revisited).

When a true anomaly of the Health Star Rating system has occurred, an appropriate resolution will be found.

Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) is currently undertaking a Proposal on mandating the Health Star Rating system. While this Proposal is under way the anomalies process has been paused. Any changes to the system will be considered as part of FSANZ’s processes. If you have any questions, please contact the HSR Unit

How to apply 

A definition, process and background of Health Star Rating anomalies is available below, and should be referred to prior to asking for a product to be considered as an anomaly

HSR anomaly definition, process and background - PDF
HSR anomaly definition, process and background - Word

To ask to have a product considered as an anomaly, contact the Health Star Rating Unit.  

Submissions received to date are available to view on the registers below.

Anomaly Register – 2020 onwards - PDF
Anomaly Register – 2020 onwards - Word

Historical Register of potential anomalies 2014-19 - PDF
Historical Register of potential anomalies 2014-19 - Word