// Introduction //

Two staple foods in Chinese households—including one widely considered healthy—have been officially branded "junk food" by Australian authorities!

#01: Soy Milk & Rice Cakes – Now "Junk Food" in Australia?

Fortified soy milk and rice cakes, long viewed as healthy staples in Chinese communities, have been controversially labeled as "junk food" under a new South Australian policy.

The Ban:

Ads for these products are now banned on public transport (buses, trains) and state government assets.

They join chips and soda on SA’s "junk food" blacklist.

Even seemingly "healthy" items like ham salad sandwiches are included.

Cultural Context:

Soy milk: A daily source of plant protein/calcium, especially for lactose-intolerant individuals.

Rice cakes: Popular low-calorie snack for weight management.

"These foods are pantry staples for Chinese families. Calling them ‘junk’ is shocking!" – Community response

#02: Official Justification vs. Expert Backlash

Government Stance:

SA claims the ban "promotes healthier choices" as part of public health strategy.

Industry & Experts Fire Back:

✅ Josh Faulks (CEO, Australian Association of National Advertisers):

"Scientifically flawed!" Policy lacks clear criteria for "junk food" classification.

"Hypocritical!" Brands like So Good Soy Milk (5-star health rating) are banned.

"Hurts farmers!" Oat/almond growers suffer as plant-based milk sales drop.

✅ Nutritionists Warn:

Health depends on portion size, diet context, and individual needs—not blanket bans.

Demanded Solution:

Adopt FSANZ’s Health Star Rating system (national standard for food labeling).

The Bigger Picture

Trust at risk: Confusing policies erode public confidence in health messaging.

Economic fallout: South Australia’s agriculture sector faces collateral damage.

Cultural disconnect: Ignores dietary traditions of multicultural communities.