FSA Strengthens Allergen Guidance for Food Businesses

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has reinforced its guidance for food businesses, setting a clearer expectation for written allergen information and more assertive communication between staff and customers. This move comes in response to a public consultation involving consumers and industry professionals, reflecting a growing demand for improved allergen transparency in the food sector.

Katie Pettifer, Chief Executive of the FSA, outlined the organisation’s stance, emphasising the need for food businesses to take a more proactive role. “We are still encouraging consumers to tell food business staff about any food allergies or intolerances, but we are now setting an expectation that businesses should provide written allergen information and encourage a conversation with their customers,” she stated.

The updated guidance, which applies to businesses in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, mandates that written allergen details must always be available for non-prepacked foods. In addition, the FSA has introduced free resources to assist businesses, including allergy icons, an allergen matrix, and a new allergy information poster.

FSA Board Pushes for Mandatory Written Allergen Information

The FSA Board took this initiative further during its meeting on 13th December, expressing a strong preference for written allergen information to become a legal requirement rather than just advisory guidance. The Board has committed to writing to Ministers in England and Wales and engaging with Northern Ireland and Scotland authorities to advocate for nationwide implementation.

Professor Susan Jebb, Chair of the FSA, reinforced the urgency of this issue, stating, “At the FSA, we are committed to making lives better for the 2 million people who have a food allergy, food intolerance, or coeliac disease. It was clear in today’s discussions that the Board believes food businesses such as cafes and restaurants should provide allergen information in writing, alongside verbal communication.”

The Board acknowledged that ensuring allergen safety requires more than just signage. Encouraging direct discussions between staff and customers adds an extra layer of protection, providing individuals with food hypersensitivities can dine with greater confidence.

Jebb also highlighted the importance of legislative change. “The Board considers that to maximise the likelihood of compliance, written allergen information should be a legal requirement, rather than just guidance.” She confirmed that formal discussions with government officials would begin immediately.

A Call for Safer Dining Experiences

The push for clearer allergen policies has been reinforced by campaigners, including the Carey family, who have tirelessly advocated for stricter allergen labelling since the tragic passing of their son, Owen, in 2017 due to an undisclosed allergen in a restaurant meal. Their efforts have contributed to the growing awareness and urgency for legislative action.

With the FSA now driving stronger guidelines and advocating for legal mandates, businesses across the UK’s food sector must adapt their practices to align with these expectations. The industry can work towards a safer and more inclusive dining experience by implementing written allergen policies and fostering transparent conversations with customers.