The labelling of food products that may contain nuts is 'inconsistent and often confusing', according to the Food Standards Agency. The warning followed publication of a report commissioned by the Agency from the Anaphylaxis Campaign that said consumers feel warnings on food wrappers are 'overused' and undermine valid warnings as a result. Dr Catherine Boyle, head of allergy and food intolerance at the Agency, said, 'We recognise that "may contain" labelling is essential to allergy sufferers. However, consumers are concerned and confused about the inconsistent way this information is communicated. Using "may contain" as a blanket insurance policy has a real impact on nut allergy sufferers, as they find their choice of even the most basic of food items significantly restricted.'
The labelling of food products that may contain nuts is 'inconsistent and often confusing', according to the Food Standards Agency. The warning followed publication of a report commissioned by the Agency from the Anaphylaxis Campaign that said consumers feel warnings on food wrappers are 'overused' and undermine valid warnings as a result. Dr Catherine Boyle, head of allergy and food intolerance at the Agency, said, 'We recognise that "may contain" labelling is essential to allergy sufferers. However, consumers are concerned and confused about the inconsistent way this information is communicated. Using "may contain" as a blanket insurance policy has a real impact on nut allergy sufferers, as they find their choice of even the most basic of food items significantly restricted.'
