The Food Standards Agency (FSA) is pushing for restaurants and cafes to provide written allergy information on their menus. A new consultation has been launched to ensure customers always have access to details about potential allergens. It is recommended that individuals with food allergies communicate their needs to servers. This initiative reflects ‘Owen’s Law’, aiming to have all allergy information in writing when ordering to give customers complete visibility.
The proposed move follows the tragic case of Owen Carey, who lost his life in 2017 due to an allergic reaction after consuming a buttermilk-coated grilled chicken burger at a Byron Burger outlet in London. Presently, food establishments like restaurants, cafes, and canteens must inform customers if their meals contain any of the 14 regulated allergens, offering this information either verbally or in writing. The FSA seeks input from food businesses, consumers, and local authorities on the proposed guidance.
Rebecca Sudworth, director of policy at the FSA, emphasized the importance of allowing individuals with food hypersensitivity to make secure dining choices without feeling excluded from the culinary experiences available. The consultation period, running until November 27, presents an opportunity for stakeholders to shape future best practices for allergen information provision that supports both consumers and food businesses.