New legislation which will require food businesses in Scotland to include the product name and full ingredients, including allergen information, on pre-packed for direct sale (PPDS) foods has been laid in Parliament today (11 February 2021).
The new legislation will improve information about allergens and other ingredients in food packed in advance, mainly at the same place from which it’s sold, before being offered to consumers.
Examples of PPDS foods include sandwiches placed into packaging by the food business and sold from the same premises, wrapped deli counter goods such as cheese and meats, and boxed salads placed on a refrigerated shelf prior to sale.
This new requirement follows wide consultation, including engaging with business and enforcement stakeholders, and consumers on improving allergen information, to help prevent further food allergy deaths in the out of home environment.
The new law will offer increased protection and confidence for consumers living with a food allergy or intolerance in the food they buy out and about. On pack information will include the 14 ‘most common’ allergens specifically listed in food information law, as well as other ingredients which can trigger reactions.
The new law is intended to come into force on 1 October 2021, to align with the rest of the UK.
Public Health Minister Mairi Gougeon said: “I recognise that this is a challenge for industry, which is why we are announcing these changes now. FSS will continue working with stakeholders over the next eight months to help industry prepare for when the new labelling requirements come into force in October.”
Food Standards Scotland will work closely with the Food Standards Agency to publish information to ensure that businesses of all sizes throughout the UK can prepare and adapt to these changes.
