A landmark change in UK food safety regulations comes into effect today, transforming how allergens are labelled on pre-packaged foods. The new legislation, widely known as 'Natasha's Law', was inspired by the tragic death of 15-year-old Natasha Ednan-Laperouse, who suffered a fatal allergic reaction to a Pret a Manger baguette in 2016.
The teenager, who had a severe sesame allergy, collapsed aboard a British Airways flight to Nice after eating an artichoke and olive tapenade baguette purchased from Heathrow Airport. Despite her father administering two EpiPens, Natasha could not be saved.
What Natasha's Law Means for Consumers
Under the new regulations, all businesses in England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland must provide full ingredient lists and allergen labelling on foods that are pre-packaged for direct sale on the same premises. This includes:
- Sandwiches made and sold in the same shop
- Salads prepared on-site
- Baked goods packaged in the same establishment
- Any other pre-packaged food items sold where they were made
A Family's Campaign for Change
Natasha's parents, Nadim and Tanya Ednan-Laperouse, channeled their grief into a powerful campaign for legislative change. Their efforts culminated in the Food Information (Amendment) Regulations 2019, which received cross-party support in Parliament.
"This is about saving lives and making sure no other family has to endure what we have," said Mr Ednan-Laperouse. "While nothing can bring our beautiful daughter back, we take comfort in knowing that her legacy will protect countless others."
Impact on Food Businesses
The new requirements represent a significant shift for small and medium-sized food businesses. Previously, foods prepared and packaged on-site were exempt from full ingredient labelling, requiring only that allergen information be available upon request.
Food Standards Agency chair, Professor Susan Jebb, emphasised: "This change in the law is a crucial step forward for consumer safety. For the millions of people living with food allergies, clear and accurate labelling can be the difference between life and death."
The implementation comes after an 18-month transition period, allowing businesses time to adapt their labelling systems and staff training procedures.
