Home bakers, cake shed operators and market traders in Stone are being reminded to make sure customers are given clear and accurate allergen information.
Staffordshire County Council’s Trading Standards team has issued the reminder following an increase in small food businesses selling home baked products, including through social media, cake sheds, local markets, fairs and community events.
Under Natasha’s Law, food classed as Prepacked for Direct Sale, known as PPDS, must carry the name of the food and a full ingredients list, with any of the 14 regulated allergens clearly emphasised.
The requirements apply regardless of the size of the business, including home based operations where food falls within the PPDS rules.
Staffordshire County Council said missing or inaccurate allergen information could put customers with food allergies at risk.
Anthony Screen, Staffordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Resilience, said
“We want to support our small independent food businesses so they can get things right and our Trading Standards team are helping them make sure they are aware of their responsibilities on providing clear allergen information.
“The labelling rules for food businesses are complex and apply whether you’re running a large bakery, selling from a market stall or operating a cake shed from your driveway.
“For someone with a food allergy, missing or inaccurate information could have very serious consequences.”
People buying baked goods are also being advised to check ingredient labels carefully and ask the seller if they have any concerns about allergens.
Further guidance for businesses is available from Staffordshire County Council’s Trading Standards food business page. Staffordshire County Council food business guidance
