News & Updates
We’re seeking your views on allergen labelling
Would you like to see clearer allergen information on all the food you buy, including upfront and easily visible allergen information? Tell us what you think in a new consultation on plans to improve allergen labelling laws in Scotland and across the UK.
The consultation is open from 25 January to 29 March 2019, and Food Standards Scotland is working with the Food Standards Agency and Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (Defra) in reviewing current allergen information.
The consultation concerns labelling rules for foods which are prepacked for direct sale, which are currently not required to display allergen information. This could be an issue for people who assume that no allergen information on food packaging means that the food does not contain allergens, which may not be the case.
Food Standards Scotland’s Chief Executive, Geoff Ogle, said:
“This is an important opportunity for people to have their say. It’s a matter that affects thousands of people at risk of allergic reactions daily, who have to be particularly careful when eating outside of the home. Food businesses have a duty of care to protect people with food allergies and many have made real progress to do so.
“This review is about what more can be done to keep their customers safe. Everyone with a food allergy should have the information they need to stay safe, and I encourage everyone to give their views.
“After the consultation, all responses will be shared and considered by Food Standards Scotland’s Board alongside the other agencies involved. We will then provide independent advice to Scottish Ministers to consider the next steps.”
Public Health Minister, Joe FitzPatrick, said:
“Allergen information is important for the protection of the health of consumers who suffer from food allergies. The Scottish Government welcomes this consultation and we look forward to considering the responses that come forward.”
