Tejal Somvanshi
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has released updated best practice guidance for providing allergen information to consumers with food hypersensitivities in the out-of-home sector. The new guidelines target restaurants, cafes, delis, market stalls, and takeaways throughout England, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
Written Information Now Expected
The FSA now expects businesses to provide allergen information in writing rather than relying solely on verbal communication. “We are still encouraging consumers to tell food business staff about any food allergies or intolerances, but we are now setting an expectation that businesses should provide written allergen information and encourage a conversation with their customers,” said Katie Pettifer, Chief Executive of the Food Standards Agency.
The guidance applies specifically to businesses serving non-prepacked or ‘loose’ food, both in-person and through online sales channels. While the recommendations aren’t mandatory and carry no penalties for non-compliance, they aim to establish a consistent standard for allergen communication.
Tools for Implementation
To support businesses with implementation, the FSA is offering free resources including:
- Allergy icons
- An allergen matrix template
- A new downloadable allergy poster for use on menus and websites
These materials can help businesses clearly communicate information about the 14 major food allergens they’re required to track.
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Research-Based Approach
The updated guidance follows extensive consultation and research with both consumers and food businesses to understand effective ways to improve written allergen information. This initiative builds on the FSA Board’s December 2023 decision to strengthen allergen information provisions for consumers.
Consumer Confidence Focus
Pettifer emphasized that following these guidelines can “promote consumer confidence in food businesses by ensuring consumers can understand the allergen information and ensure they don’t feel excluded from experiencing our vibrant food culture.”
The guidance particularly focuses on creating an environment where customers with food hypersensitivities can dine with greater confidence, knowing allergen information is consistently available in writing and that staff are prepared to discuss their needs.
FAQ
Is it now mandatory for restaurants to provide written allergen information?
No, the FSA guidance sets an expectation but is not legally mandatory. There are no penalties for non-compliance, though businesses are encouraged to follow the guidance to improve customer safety and satisfaction.
Which food businesses does this guidance apply to?
The guidance applies to food businesses providing non-prepacked or ‘loose’ food in person or via online sales in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. This includes restaurants, cafes, delis, market stalls, and takeaways.
What resources is the FSA providing to help businesses comply?
The FSA is offering free tools including allergy icons, an allergen matrix template, and a new allergy poster that food businesses can download and use on their menus and websites.
Do customers still need to inform staff about their allergies?
Yes, the FSA still encourages consumers to tell food business staff about their allergies or intolerances. The guidance recommends both written information and conversations between staff and customers about allergen requirements.
What are the 14 food allergens that businesses need to provide information about?
The 14 major allergens that must be declared are: celery, cereals containing gluten, crustaceans, eggs, fish, lupin, milk, molluscs, mustard, nuts, peanuts, sesame seeds, soya, and sulphur dioxide (sometimes known as sulphites).
When did this guidance come into effect?
The guidance was issued following the FSA Board’s decision in December 2023 to strengthen allergen information for consumers. Implementation began with the official publication of the guidance.
