Food outlets in Staffordshire are being reminded about their responsibilities in keeping customers with allergies safe.
As part of Food Allergy Awareness Week, starting on Wednesday 20 May, Trading Standards officers are reminding restaurants, cafés, takeaways and other food retailers of their legal responsibilities around food allergens.
The reminder also applies to smaller and home‑based food businesses, including those producing bespoke baked goods from home kitchens, selling at local markets or events, or operating cake sheds from private driveways. Even where profit margins are small or the business is hobby‑based, food safety law still applies.
Under Natasha’s Law, food businesses are required to provide full ingredient labelling, with any of the 14 major allergens clearly highlighted. This legislation gives anyone eating in a restaurant or takeaway the right to receive accurate allergen information, either in writing or verbally.
The law also requires businesses to label food known as Prepacked for Direct Sale (PPDS). This includes food sold from cake sheds, market stalls and similar outlets where food is prepared and packaged before being offered for sale.
Councillor Anthony Screen, Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Resilience at Staffordshire County Council, said:
“It’s vital that food businesses take the rules surrounding allergens seriously. For people living with allergies, clear and accurate information is a lifeline that can prevent serious harm or even save lives. This is not optional.
“Natasha’s Law places a legal duty on food businesses, and we expect those responsibilities to be met in full. Our Trading Standards team will continue to work with businesses and, where necessary, take firm action against those who fall short.
“We want customers in Staffordshire to feel confident when buying food and safe while eating it wherever they go.”
To support people living with severe food allergies, Trading Standards officers also offer the following advice:
- Let the business know – Inform the food outlet of any allergies when making a reservation and again on arrival.
- Ask questions – Don’t hesitate to ask about ingredients and food preparation methods.
- Check the menu – Look for allergen information or ask to see an allergen menu.
- Be prepared – Always carry any necessary medication in case of an emergency.
Further advice for food businesses is available on the Trading Standards food business webpage.
People with concerns about improper food labelling can report it online on the Trading Standards Report It webpage or by calling 01785 330356.
