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Are manufacturers losing market share by playing it too safe with allergen labelling?

Studies suggest precautionary allergen labelling (PAL) baffles shoppers. A survey of 5,000 subscribers to the UK’s FreeFrom newsletter last year revealed that 45% were totally confused by warnings like ‘may contain nuts’. Even more (56%) were actually annoyed by the ubiquitous nature of the information.

Mintel research tells us that in the UK alone 39% of the population say they avoid at least one food, while a survey of 5,000 shoppers published this week by BBC Good Food suggested that 17% believe they have an allergy or intolerance (though only half have been diagnosed).

As consumers become increasingly cautious in food choices, could the Allergen Safe concept –give manufacturers peace of mind to only use PAL when necessary without fear of legal repercussions?

 

You can read the full article HERE

 

Food Labelling Services comments:

The Food and Drink Federation have issued guidelines on how to make 'Free From' allergen claims. Using this guidance, Food Labelling Services can advise on whether a product fulfils the criteria for a 'Free from' claim or not, if sufficient information is provided by the producer. if there is any risk from adventitious contamination from allergens a “may contains” statement is necessary immediately under the ingredients list.