Natasha’s Law comes into force

Natasha’s Law comes into force today (1 October), requiring all pre-packed food to display full ingredient and allergen labelling in the UK.

Legislation has been amended by the government and will apply to all food prepared and packed on the same premises from which it is sold. Natasha's Law (the UK Food Information Amendment Act 2019) will require all food that is pre-packed for direct sale (PPDS) to display a label with a full ingredients list, including the 14 allergens.

The change follows the death of 15-year-old Natasha Ednan-Laperouse (pictured) in 2016 after she suffered an allergic reaction to a Pret A Manger baguette containing sesame. At an inquest into her death a coroner described Pret's allergen labelling as "inadequate".

These changes will apply to businesses in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Further information can be found here.

However, concerns have been raised that the UK's ongoing food supply chain crisis could make it more difficult for hospitality businesses to keep track of allergens in their dishes or comply with the changes.