Natasha’s Law is a food labeling regulation introduced in the United Kingdom to protect people with food allergies. It requires food businesses to provide full ingredient lists and clear allergen labeling on all pre-packed for direct sale (PPDS) foods. The law is named after Natasha Ednan-Laperouse, a teenager who tragically died in 2016 after suffering an allergic reaction to a sesame ingredient that was not labeled on a pre-packaged sandwich.
Key points of Natasha’s Law:
1. Scope: The law applies to PPDS foods, which are packaged on the same premises where they are sold. Examples include sandwiches, salads, and bakery items prepared and wrapped in-store.
2. Labeling Requirements:
• Full ingredient lists must be displayed on the packaging.
• Allergens must be emphasised in the ingredient list (e.g., in bold or capital letters).
3. Purpose: The regulation aims to give allergy sufferers greater confidence when purchasing food, reducing the risk of accidental exposure to allergens.
Natasha’s Law came into effect on October 1, 2021, and is enforced across England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland.