The Food Standards Agency (FSA) is urging restaurants and cafes to provide written allergy information on their menus. A consultation has been launched on new guidance to ensure customers always have access to information about potential allergens. Customers with food allergies are also encouraged to discuss their needs with servers. The proposal supports ‘Owen’s Law’, named after Owen Carey, who tragically died at 18 from an allergic reaction after dining at a London restaurant. The law aims to have all allergy information in writing when ordering to increase customer awareness.
Currently, food establishments in the UK are required to notify customers if their food contains any of the 14 major allergens, with the choice of providing this information either verbally or in writing. The FSA is seeking input from food businesses, consumers, and local authorities on these new proposals. Rebecca Sudworth, FSA’s director of policy, emphasised the importance of ensuring people with food hypersensitivity can make safe dining choices and fully enjoy the country’s food culture.
Sudworth urged individuals to participate in the consultation to help shape the future guidance on allergen information provision. The consultation period runs until November 27, providing stakeholders with an opportunity to contribute to improving allergen information practices in food establishments. The FSA is committed to enhancing the dining experience for individuals with food allergies while supporting businesses in providing accurate allergen information.
The initiative comes in response to increasing concerns about food allergies and the tragic consequences that can result from inadequate information. By promoting written allergen information on menus, the FSA aims to create a safer and inclusive dining environment for all individuals. The consultation is a crucial step in improving allergen awareness and ensuring that customers can dine out confidently, knowing their dietary needs are being met.