Through inspections, complaint investigations, business advice, projects and sampling the service works hard to help ensure that:
- food is labelled in accordance with food labelling laws
- food complies with the compositional requirements of various pieces of legislation
- the presence of allergens is correctly communicated on food labels and menus
- food does not contain any unauthorised additives or additives in excess of the permitted levels
Our environmental health colleagues at district and borough councils deal with the food hygiene controls, investigate complaints about food poisoning, and ensure that food handlers are adequately trained.
Food allergens
Watch our short video about food allergens.
Food Standards Agency
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has produced resources for the management or allergens which includes online training and guidance leaflets for businesses and consumers.
The 'Allergen information for loose foods' guidance has been translated into a further 9 languages. These are attached to this page.
The FSA has produced guidance for food manufacturers on allergen labelling.
Online training on allergy and intolerance is available on the FSA website.
Natasha's Law
From 1 October 2021, the law required all food businesses (from small independent shops through to national retailers) to label food that is Prepacked for Direct Sale (PPDS) with a name of the food, and a full ingredients list that emphasises the presence of allergens.
You can find out more about what the changes mean for your business by visiting the Food Standards Agency and the Nationwide Caterers Association.
You can view a short film explaining the rules introduced via Natasha's Law.
Further advice
For more information or bespoke advice please contact us.