Natasha’s Law to be laid in parliament
Written by Defra Press Office
The law will require food businesses to include full ingredients labelling on pre-packed for direct sale foods.
The Mirror interviewed the parents of Natasha Ednan-Laperouse, who tragically died after suffering an allergic reaction to a Pret a Manger baguette, who have tirelessly campaigned to ensure greater protections for allergen sufferers.
Currently, food prepared on the premises in which it is sold is not required to display allergen information on the label, meaning allergy sufferers sometimes lack confidence buying food to eat whilst they are out.
A Statutory Instrument (SI) will be laid in Parliament later today (5 September 2019) tightening the rules by requiring these foods to carry a full list of ingredients. This law will come in to effect in October 2021.
Food Minister Zac Goldsmith said:
“This is a significant moment for the millions of allergy sufferers in England and a fitting tribute to Nadim and Tanya Ednan-Laperouse’s tireless campaigning.
“The introduction of this law will make it easier for allergy sufferers to make clear, safe choices when buying food.”
The family of Natasha Ednan-Laperouse said:
“This is a hugely significant day for allergen sufferers in this country. The introduction of Natasha’s Law brings greater transparency about what people are buying and eating, lays down new standards for the food companies, and highlights the battle against the growing epidemic of allergies.
“Natasha was a spirited campaigner for justice and today she is smiling down on us knowing that this law well help ensure others do not suffer in the way our family does, and always will, following the loss of our beloved daughter and sister.
“We would like to thank ministers for their unflinching support in doing the right thing on behalf of all people with allergies.”
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