FSA unveils business support measures to prepare for Natasha’s Law

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has launched new resources to support food businesses preparing for upcoming changes to the allergen labeling of pre-packed for direct sale (PPDS) foods.

The new allergen law, also known as ‘Natasha’s Law’, requires that PPDS foods clearly display and emphasise allergen ingredient information. This means that any business selling such food will have to include full ingredients on the product label with allergenic ingredients emphasised within that list.

Taking effect on 1 October in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, the law is enacted following the death of teenager Natasha Ednan-Laperouse from an allergic reaction caused by a packaged baguette which, at the time, did not require allergen labelling.

The FSA has launched a PPDS Hub featuring useful information including new labelling guidance for PPDS foods and guides that will be helpful to specific sectors including bakery, butchers, fast food and takeaways, mobile sellers, restaurants, cafes and pubs, and schools. The guides each give practical information on PPDS and how these changes could impact a food business.

The FSA will also be hosting a webinar for food businesses on 4 August at 2pm, open to businesses across England, Wales and Northern Ireland.

“The FSA’s ambition is that the UK becomes the best place in the world for a food hypersensitive consumer and the upcoming allergen labelling changes are a huge milestone for people with food allergies,” commented Sushma Acharya, Head of Policy and Strategy for Food Hypersensitivity at the FSA.

“We recognise the significant impact this will have on many businesses, and with less than three months to go, we want to ensure businesses are supported in making these changes. As well as the guidance and resources we have available, we will be hosting a webinar that has been designed with micro and small businesses in mind.”

Businesses can register online for the PPDS webinar here, and a recording of the event will also be made available on the agency’s website.