What are the allergens?

Allergens are the foods/chemicals the EC has decided cause allergies and have to be declared to consumers. Some foods such as strawberries, cause allergic reactions but are not yet included in the specified list.

Since November 2005, all pre-packed food sold in the UK must show on the label if it contains one of the 14 agreed allergens as an ingredient. These allergens include:

• peanuts
• shellfish
• mustard

Peanuts are not nuts, they are legumes.

Those with access to our handbooks in hard copy or online (see opposite) can see what the allergen regulations say, find out what the 14 recognised allergens are and see guidance on how to label correctly and ensure your products are safe for anyone who consumes them.

The recent death of a man with nut allergy, after eating a curry highlights the importance of knowing your responsibilities and your products.

Cross-contamination

Traces of allergens may get into food through cross contamination.

When should you use allergen advisory labelling?

Why is cross-contamination dangerous?

What should you be able to tell customers about allergens in your products if you are asked?

Find out with Food Solutions package - access the closed section of our website for information, the online E-Handbook and get the Quick Reference Handbook and checklist. Our helpline can help you solve your problems.

Full list of products

Labeling for food allergies

"May contain"

Correct labelling of your products is essential.

When should you use "May Contain"?

What are the consequences of your food being labelled incorrectly?

Allergens can be dangerous to allergy sufferers. It is in your interests to get your product labelling right - your reputation is at stake.

Use of "May Contain" in labeling, withdrawal and recall of products are covered in detail in our handbooks.

Basic allergen information can be found in Food regulations made easy - the Quick Reference Handbook with full details in Understanding Food Hygiene and Safety Regulations - hard copy or E-Handbook or E-Handbook Package)

Allergen Labelling - more

More information on allergen labeling, links to guidance from the FSA and allergy training are available in the members section. Our training modules cover allergens, see E-Handbook and E-Handbook Package for access, or join.

Our sister site www.bobsalmon.co.uk gives a chapter by chapter rundown of the book.