Allergens

Change in Legislation - Natasha's Law with affect of 1st October 2021

This amendment was brought about thanks to the actions of a lobbying group lead by the parents of Natasha Ednan-Laperouse, the teenager who died after suffering an allergic reaction to an undeclared ingredient in a prepacked meal. Due to their efforts, the government confirmed that stronger laws would be implemented to protect those with food allergies.

The change in legislation is about how food is prepared on premises and then pre-packed for consumer use. The UK Food Information Amendment, also known as Natasha’s Law, comes into effect from 1st October 2021 and will require food businesses to provide full ingredient lists and allergen labelling on foods pre-packaged for direct sale on the premises. The legislation is being introduced to protect allergy sufferers and give them confidence in the food they buy.

The legislation relates to food items such as a packaged sandwich or salad, made by kitchen staff earlier in the day, pre-packed and stored on a shelf or refrigerator for purchase. According to the new rules, PPDS (Prepacked for Direct Sale) food will have to clearly display the following information on the packaging:

- Name of the food.

-Full ingredients list, with allergenic ingredients emphasised (for example in bold, italics or a different colour).

Cityserve (Our school meal providers) have installed the necessary software and provide label’s and printing devices to accommodate this. One of the identified areas impacted is where your school may request packed lunches for pupils going on school educational trips. To ensure that your school meets the requirements of “Natasha’s Law”, A “pre-order” packed lunch menu has been introduced highlighting ingredient and allergen information and will be shared with parents accordingly. This will be done at the time the school is liaising with parents when advising them of the trip and seeking approval/authorisation for the child to attend. This provides the parents with all the information they require to make an informed decision when pre-ordering their child’s lunch requirements.This process ensures labelling will not be required on these pre-ordered packed lunches.

To view the School Lunch Menus and Standard Packed Lunches please go to 'Important Information' - 'School Lunches'

If you have any questions or concerns please contact the school office.