Explaining Natasha’s Law

Following the recent introduction of the UK Food Information Amendment Law, also known as Natasha’s Law, we explain the updated food packaging in all our HPC Food areas and what it means for team members.

It probably hasn’t escaped your notice that there have been some changes to the packaging on food products available in the canteens around Site, and it may have left you wondering why.

Earlier this month the UK Food Information Amendment law, also known as Natasha’s Law, was introduced. This means that food businesses must include full ingredient lists and allergen labelling on foods that have been packaged for direct sale on Site.

Allergy awareness

But what does prepacked for direct sale mean? Sarah Barnes, Senior Catering Delivery Lead, Site Operations for HPC, explained: “In simple terms, it is food that’s been made, packaged and sold to consumers all on the same premises. Pre-packaged foods are foods that are completely packaged and cannot be altered without opening or changing the packaging.”

Natasha’s Law was created to protect those who suffer from nutritional allergies, and to also give them more confidence and trust in the food they buy. The amendment was introduced after 15-year-old Natasha Ednan-Laperouse tragically died after having an allergic reaction to an undeclared ingredient in a pre-packaged meal.

Clearer labelling

So look out for the new packaging, which contains the name of the food along with clearly labelled allergens, which will be italicised, emboldened, or printed in different colours.

Sarah added: “Natasha’s Law supports customers with allergies to have confidence when they’re buying pre-packaged food.

“The introduction of this law will make it easier for allergy sufferers to make clear, safe choices when buying food, and will ensure that we maintain zero harm to all our team members across the workforce.”

Find out more here – Natasha’s Law – UK Food Labelling Resource – Homepage (natashas-law.com)