Do you produce bottled sauces, or food merchandise you sell for off premises consumption?
In February 2021, the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code (the Code) was amended to introduce new requirements for the labelling of allergens in food. These plain English allergen labelling changes will help people find allergen information on food labels more quickly and easily so they can make informed and safe food choices.
Food labels must inform customers about the risks that certain components pose to certain groups of individuals, such as pregnant women and persons with food allergies. Find out what ingredients should be listed on your label if your food or drink contains them in our guide below.
Food businesses have until 25 February 2024 to update their labels and train their staff so the information they give customers meets the new rules.
Any food packaged and labelled before this date, under the existing rules, may be sold for a further 2 years.
Allergy statements on food labels
Some ingredients need to be avoided by certain people, such as people with food allergies and pregnant women. Some consumers also need to know some information about the food so they don’t get sick.
There are 3 main statements that need to be included on a food label:
- Allergen declaration: Allergies to some food proteins (allergens) can be life-threatening. They must be listed on the food label if the food contains them, or if they were used when making the product.
- Warning statement: Only applies to some food. You must use the exact format and words outlined in the food standards code.
- Advisory statement: Must be provided for certain foods or ingredients which may cause health risks for some consumers.