UK FSA Publishes Allergen Labelling Guidance for Food Businesses

The UK Food Standards Agency (FSA) has published new guidance to protect the health of people with food allergies and improve food safety. The guidance aims to guide food businesses to make allergen reporting clearer, more understandable and more complete. 

The new guidelines cover all establishments where food is served, such as restaurants, cafes and markets. In particular, it is explained in detail how to specify allergen information in unpackaged foods and ingredients on menus. 

The guide emphasises that the 14 main allergens must be correctly identified, the consumer must be clearly informed verbally and in writing, and the staff must be informed on this issue. It also states that allergen control must be considered at every stage of the food chain, from production to presentation, to ensure safety. 

With this guidance, the FSA aims to both improve consumer safety and provide a workable standardisation for food businesses. The guidance is expected to be referenced by all food businesses across the UK.