Food Information Regulations 2014 have made it mandatory for allergen information to be emphasised in the ingredients list on all pre-packed foods. For non pre-packed foods (including catering), allergen information must be made available to consumers.
There are 14 allergens covered by the regulations.
The Food Standards Agency website gives information on the allergens covered by the regulations, and advice on providing information to customers and best practice for handling allergenic ingredients to prevent cross contamination.
The Food Standards Agency allergen checklist for food businesses provides an easy to follow guide to putting allergen controls in place at a business.
There is also a food allergy online training course that managers and staff must complete.
The law has changed in relation to 'pre-packed for direct sale' food. The changes take effect from October 2021 giving businesses time to comply with the new requirements.
Use the materials and resources provided by the Food Standards Agency to ensure that your business controls allergens and has full allergen information available for customers.