More than 2 million people in the UK suffer from allergies, including 2% of adults and 8% of children. In severe cases, their conditions can be life threatening and can sometimes result in death.

In the UK about ten people every year die from an allergic reaction to food and many more end up in hospital. Food that is perfectly safe for one person to eat may be extremely dangerous for another. There is no cure for food allergies – the only way someone can avoid getting ill is to make sure that they don’t eat the foods they are allergic to.

From December 2014, food businesses now have to give information on 14 allergens – this applies to food that is sold pre-packed by retailers or by restaurants, takeaways and caterers.

Follow the first two links below to find out more what this means for customers and food businesses:

For the Public and Customers

For Food Businesses

Further information can be obtained from contacting:

Trading Standards

Food Standards Agency