New FSA guidance on allergen management for non-prepacked food

Providing safe, inclusive food options is a key goal for any food business. To support this, the Food Standards Agency (FSA) has released updated best practice guidance on how food businesses can provide accurate and clear allergen information for non-prepacked foods to their consumers. Aimed at food businesses such as cafés, restaurants, bakeries and other businesses selling non pre-packed foods, this guidance outlines how accessible allergen information is provided by businesses to help consumers make informed choices and stay safe. 

Although compliance with the best practice guidance isn’t a legal requirement, it does offer valuable steps on how your business can review and look to improve how allergen information is presented to your customers. 

Key points from the guidance 

Here’s a breakdown of what the updated guidance recommends: 

Written allergen information 

• Make allergen details readily available in writing such as on menus, signage or separate documents 

• Make sure the information is clear, accurate and specific for all 14 mandated allergens 

Support through conversation 

• Back up written information with effective communication 

• Staff should engage with customers about any allergens they need to avoid and confirm details accurately 

Flexible presentation options 

• Food businesses can choose different formats for presenting allergen information, like worded statements or icons with clear labels 

• Just remember that consistency is key! 

Ingredient and recipe tracking 

• Keep records of ingredients, recipes and supplier information to make sure allergen details are regularly updated and accurate 

Training is essential 

• Staff must be adequately be trained in allergen management and communication to safely handle and prepare foods tailored to customers’ needs 

Distance selling and pre-orders 

• For online or phone orders, provide accurate allergen information both during ordering and on delivery 

• Make adjustments or substitution details clear 

‘Free-from’ claims 

• Be transparent and cautious with claims like “gluten-free” or “peanut-free” 

• Reinforce customer trust by making sure claims meet safety standards 

Encouraging open communication 

• Promote conversations about allergen needs through visible signage and staff behaviours to help customers feel included and supported 

Remember – the guidance highlights best practice principles, which aren’t required to be implemented by law, but following them can help protect customers’ health, reduce risks and boost confidence in your business. If you want to read the full guidance, click here. 

Got questions? 

If you’re looking to improve allergen management in your food business or have any questions about the recommendations, we’re here to help. Just get in touch with your account manager or free advice line for more information.