Consultation on amended allergen information provisions

The Government (through Defra) has today launched a consultation on proposed amendments to regulations relating to allergen information for foods that are prepacked for direct sale (PPDS) to the consumer on the same premises from which they are sold e.g. baguettes or salads that are made on site and then placed on a shelf for customers to buy.

In the words of Defra:

“It is very important that consumers are provided with accurate information about allergenic ingredients in products to allow them to make safe food choices. Continuing fatalities and effects on public health have raised the issue of whether the current regulatory framework for the provision of allergen information for PPDS foods is sufficient to give consumers the information they need to make safe food choices. Through this consultation we are seeking views on non-regulatory and regulatory policy options to improve the provision of allergen information to consumers for PPDS foods.”

Principally, four options are being put forward to improve the way allergy information is provided for these foods, including:

• promoting best practice around communicating allergen information to consumers (no change in law);
• mandating ‘ask the staff’ labels on all products. Staff would have to provide information orally and in writing if asked;
• labelling food with the name of the food and list allergens; or
• labelling food with name of food, full ingredients list and with allergens emphasised.

Responses can be made:

• via the online survey (by following this link);
• by requesting a copy of the survey and a response form by emailing allergenlabellingreview@defra.gsi.gov.uk; or
• via post to - Allergen Labelling Review Team, Defra, Room 202, Zone 2, 1-2 Peasholme Green, York, YO1 7PX.

The consultation closes at 23.45 on 29 March 2019.