Natasha Ednan-Laperouse died after suffering an allergic reaction to a Pret a Manger baguette. Currently food prepared on site is not required to display allergen information on the label.
Pre-packaged food is sold in the private sector at cafes and in the public sector at hospitals. This new law change will mean allergy suffers will have more ‘confidence’ when buying their food knowing it is safe for them to eat.
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.”
‘Natasha’s Law’ will be enforced in October 2021, giving businesses two years to prepare for the new rules.
The family of Natasha released a statement: “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.”
The Food Standards Agency will publish additional information on 1 October to ensure businesses of all sizes can prepare and adapt to these changes.
Heather Hancock, Food Standards Agency chair, added: “This is an important and welcome step towards our ambition for the UK to become the best place in the world for people who have food allergies and intolerances.
“I encourage businesses large and small to work with the Food Standards Agency to get this right. Success will mean more choice and better protection for the millions of people – our families, friends, colleagues and neighbours across the UK – who have food allergies.”