Foods must be accurately labelled to protect consumers and provide them with the right information to make informed food choices. It is an offence to falsely describe foods.

Food labelling requirements are very detailed and dependent on the type of food and how it is packaged and sold. The Business Companion website provides full information on food labelling requirements.

Food labelling guidance and online training is also provided on the Food Standards Agency website.

Allergens

By law all businesses must provide the consumer with information on 14 specific food allergens used as ingredients or processing aids in foods. Not providing this information is a criminal offence and could cause someone to die. The legislation applies to all foods and drinks, and to both packaged foods/drinks and foods/drinks sold loose.

Please see our Allergen guidance for food businesses which includes links to information in different languages.

For full guidance on allergen requirements please also see Business Companion's guide on food allergens and the Food Standards Agency website. This guidance also includes allergy training for staff and resources for businesses.