Food Information Regulations (FIR) 2014

In December, 2014 new legislation will be coming into effect that will impact all foodservice operators across the United Kingdom. From 13th December, 2014, a new piece of legislation will apply, entitled the 'UK Food Information Regulation No 1169/2011', which will apply to food business operators at every stage of the food chain, from manufacturers to caterers.

Prior to the 2014 legislation, the allergen labelling requirements in the Food Labelling Regulations 1996 applied only to pre-packed food and alcoholic drinks. The introduction of the 2014 Regulations extends the obligation to declare the presence of allergens in food that is: not pre-packed; packed on the operator’s premises at the consumer’s request; and pre-packed for direct sale.

Importantly for caterers, the Regulations require the provision of allergen information for all food purchased or consumed on the premises (including unpackaged food). Schools must provide information on the "14 common allergens". This allergen information must be supplied either on the menu, verbally by staff, or via a menu board or leaflet.

In order to guide your School or Academy through the implementation of the mandatory Regulation, CaterBuy has provided a list of helpful websites, including: regulations and official guidance; Food Standards Agency guidance and on-line training; suppliers' allergen information; and links to appropriate allergy training providers.