UK Food Labelling Regulations: Industry News

Contents

• Introduction
• Natasha’s Law: A Landmark Change
• Vital Elements of UK Food Labelling
• Nutritional Information
• Sustainability and Ethical Labelling
• Health and Wellness Claims
• Technological Advances in UK Food Labelling
• Conclusion

Introduction

The UK government is implementing new UK food labelling regulations starting September 2024 to enhance consumer transparency and safety. These changes are crucial for ensuring that consumers can make informed decisions about the products they buy. This comprehensive guide covers the latest updates in UK food labelling laws, including Natasha’s Law, nutritional information, sustainability claims, health and wellness declarations, and technological advancements in labelling.

Natasha’s Law: A Landmark Change

What is Natasha’s Law?

Natasha’s Law, officially known as the UK’s Food Information (Amendment) Regulations 2019, was introduced following the tragic death of 16-year-old Natasha Ednan-Laperouse. Unfortunately, Natasha suffered a fatal allergic reaction to a baguette that did not list sesame seeds as an ingredient. Consequently, this law mandates that all ‘prepacked for direct sale’ (PPDS) foods must display the name of the food, a whole ingredients list, and allergenic ingredients emphasized (e.g., in bold or italics).

Impact on the Industry

Moreover, Natasha’s Law represents a significant shift in the food industry, particularly for businesses that prepare and pack foods on the same premises where they are sold. In essence, this includes items like salads, sandwiches, and soups. Specifically, the law aims to provide more precise information to allergy sufferers, helping them make safer choices​​​​​​.

Compliance Requirements

Fundamentally, to comply with Natasha’s Law, businesses must:

• Clearly label all PPDS foods with the name of the food and a list of ingredients.
• Emphasize any of the 14 specified allergens within the ingredients list.

For more detailed guidance on compliance, businesses can refer to the Food Standards Agency’s official guidelines.

Vital Elements of UK Food Labelling

Allergen Labelling

Regardless, under EU regulations, UK food labelling must include an ingredient list with allergen information highlighted. The 14 specified allergens are:

• Cereals containing gluten
• Crustaceans
• Eggs
• Fish
• Peanuts
• Soybeans
• Milk
• Nuts
• Celery
• Mustard
• Sesame
• Sulphur dioxide/sulphites
• Lupin
• Molluscs

Businesses can highlight allergen information on their nutritional labelling using bold text, italics, or a different colour to ensure they stand out​​​​.

Date Labels

Markedly, date labels are crucial for informing consumers about the shelf life of products. These include:

• Use by Date: Indicates food safety. Products should not be consumed after this date.
• Best Before Date: This date indicates quality. Products are safe to consume but may not be of the best quality after this date.

Storage Instructions

Proper storage instructions help ensure food remains safe to eat. Labels often include phrases like ‘keep refrigerated’ or ‘store in a cool and dry place’​​.

Nutritional Information

Mandatory Nutritional Labelling

Since December 2016, it has been mandatory for most pre-packed foods to display a nutrition declaration. This includes information on energy (calories), fat, saturated fat, carbohydrates, sugars, protein, and salt per 100g or 100 ml of the product​​.

Front of Pack (FOP) Nutritional Labelling

Many UK food producers use the traffic light system on the front of packs to provide an at-a-glance nutritional quality assessment. The colours indicate:

• Red: High levels (consume less often)
• Amber: Medium levels (consume in moderation)
• Green: Low levels (healthier choice)

Above all, this system helps consumers make quick and informed choices about the nutritional content of their food​​​​when reading UK food labelling.

Sustainability and Ethical Labelling

Eco-Labelling and Green Claims

Furthermore, consumers increasingly demand information about the environmental impact of their food. Eco-labels, such as those indicating recyclability, carbon footprint, and animal welfare, are becoming more common. However, the lack of standardisation can lead to accusations of ‘greenwashing’​​.

Mandatory Recycling Labels

Additionally, recycling labels, such as the On-Pack Recycling Label (OPRL), will become mandatory in the UK from 2026. Likewise, this initiative aims to improve consumer awareness and participation in recycling programs​​.

Health and Wellness Claims

Regulatory Framework

Purposefully, health and wellness claims on UK food labelling must be scientifically substantiated to prevent misleading consumers. The Advertising Standards Agency monitors these claims to ensure accuracy and regulation compliance​​.

Functional Benefits

Brands often highlight functional benefits, such as high protein content or added vitamins, to appeal to health-conscious consumers. These claims must be backed by scientific evidence and comply with stringent regulations​​.

Technological Advances in UK Food Labelling

QR Codes and Digital Platforms

Recently, digital technology has introduced new ways for brands to share information. In short, QR codes on packaging can link consumers to detailed product information, including nutritional Information, sourcing, and recipe ideas. Undoubtedly, this method allows for more comprehensive information without cluttering the packaging​​.

Blockchain Technology

Meanwhile, Blockchain technology offers a secure and transparent way to track food products from farm to table. This can enhance traceability and provide consumers with detailed information about the origin and handling of their food​​.

Innovations in Cooking Instructions

Consequently, with the popularity of appliances like air fryers, packaging often includes specific cooking instructions to help consumers prepare food safely and effectively​​.

Conclusion

To conclude, the evolution of food labelling laws in the UK reflects a growing demand for transparency, safety, and sustainability in the food industry. Furthermore, Natasha’s Law has set a new standard for allergen labelling, ensuring consumers with allergies can make safer choices. Likewise, as technology and consumer expectations evolve, UK food labelling will undoubtedly adapt to meet these new challenges.

Visit the Food Standards Agency and Food Standards Scotland for more information on UK food labelling regulations and best practices.

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