Food businesses reminded of food allergy risks in run up to Valentine’s Day

Food businesses in Staffordshire are being reminded of the importance of providing clear allergen and ingredient information in the run up to Valentine’s Day.

With the county’s restaurants gearing up for one of the busiest days of the year, Staffordshire County Council’s Trading Standards service is making sure outlets understand the rules and their responsibilities around food labelling.

Natasha’s Law, introduced in 2021, requires full labelling of foods and ingredients, with any of the 14 major allergens emphasised in the list.  It means anyone eating in a restaurant or takeaway has the right to receive allergen information, either in written format or verbally.  The law also requires businesses to label all food known as pre-packed for direct sale.

Victoria Wilson, Cabinet Member responsible for Trading Standards at Staffordshire County Council said: “This is a really important area of work for our Trading Standards service which is why they continue to work with food businesses.

“Food allergy has become a growing concern in recent years and that’s why we’re raising awareness of the issue, the laws in force and advising businesses of the importance of offering clear information. 

“When this goes wrong, the consequences can be very serious and in Staffordshire we have had a number of incidents where people have ended up in hospital, as a result of being served food that has given them a severe allergic reaction.  The team works with food businesses to provide the support they need to ensure they understand the requirements relating to allergens.” 

People who have severe food allergies or intolerances are also being reminded to check that food ordered does not contain an ingredient which would harm them.

Food businesses can find out more information by visiting the Business Companion website.