Summary
- New Food Labelling Rules.
- Effective 13th December 2014.
- Applicable to Restaurants and Takeaways.
Original Author: Food Standards Agency
Original Link: http://www.food.gov.uk/news-updates/news/2014/13305/new-food-allergen-rules-for-consumers
Content
Restaurants and takeaways will be required by law to tell customers if any of the main 14 food allergen ingredients are in the food they serve. These changes will mean consumers can feel more confident to ask about allergenic ingredients when eating out.
The 14 allergens range from widely known ingredients such as peanuts and milk, to less widely recognised allergens including mustard and lupin seeds, which are often used in flour. Check out our infographic for the full list of 14 allergens.
To reduce allergic reactions and deaths
It’s hoped the new laws will reduce the number of reactions caused by people accidentally eating food they are allergic to. On average, 10 people die and about 5,000 are hospitalised per year due to allergic reactions. The majority of these avoidable deaths and hospitalisations are caused by incorrect information being given about allergenic ingredients in foods when eating out.
This is a growing issue in the UK, with hospital admissions relating to allergies rising by 87% between 2002 and 2014.
More…. http://www.food.gov.uk/news-updates/news/2014/13305/new-food-allergen-rules-for-consumers