THE Food Standards Agency (FSA) has launched a consultation on the use of precautionary allergen information and labels often written as ‘may contain’ on food packaging.
It comes following recent FSA studies revealing that consumers can often be confused by the range of precautionary labelling statements on pre-packed foods.
The research also found that the ‘majority’ of food businesses are using the labels to ‘try to protect consumers’ but are ‘confused about when and how they need to do so’.
Further to this, the FSA said that there is evidence that businesses need clarity on the measures they need to take to control the risk of allergen cross-contamination, which then informs their labelling decision.
To help develop our work on this issue, the FSA wants to hear from businesses, local authority food teams, healthcare professionals, allergy charities, consumers and any other interested parties through a consultation and a series of online workshops.
The FSA is also seeking views on the provision of precautionary allergen information about non-pre-packed foods, such as meals served in restaurants, where precautionary information can be given verbally.
Food Standards Agency director of policy, Rebecca Sudworth, said, “Consumers have told us that inconsistency in how precautionary allergen labelling and information is given can cause a lack of trust in the labels and stop them being able to enjoy certain foods.
“We know that precautionary allergen information is difficult for businesses and local authorities responsible for enforcing the law, and we very keen to hear from them about how to make the law clearer and easier to follow.
“The responses we get will help inform our next steps in making a workable system for businesses to put into practice that consumers understand and trust.”
The consultation runs until 14 March 2022. To access it, click here.
