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Key facts and statistics
- The Food Information Regulations 2014 came into force on 13 December 2014, aligning with the European Union’s Food Information to Consumers (FIC) Regulation.
- According to the Food Standards Agency (FSA), food allergies affect around 2 million people in the UK, with hospital admissions for allergic reactions increasing by 615% between 1992 and 2012.
- The regulations mandate that food businesses provide allergen information on pre-packed and non-pre-packed foods, a crucial measure for protecting consumers with food allergies.
Key definitions
Understanding the terminology within FIR is essential for effective implementation:
- Pre-packed food - Food wholly or partly enclosed in packaging before being offered for sale and without altering its content.
- Non-pre-packed food - Food sold loose or packaged at the consumer’s request.
- Allergens - These are substances that can cause allergic reactions. The FIR requires businesses to highlight 14 allergens, including nuts, gluten, and dairy.
- Nutrition labelling - Information provided on the nutrient content of food, including energy value, fats, carbohydrates, proteins, and salts.
Best practices for implementation
Accurate allergen labelling
Ensure all pre-packed and non-pre-packed foods clearly identify any 14 allergens. This can be achieved through:
- Clear signage - Use prominent and readable signs to inform customers about allergenic ingredients.
- Staff training - Regularly train staff on allergen awareness and the importance of accurate labelling.
Comprehensive nutrition labelling
Provide detailed nutritional information on all pre-packed food products. This should include:
- Energy value - Is measured in kilojoules (kJ) and kilocalories (kcal).
- Macronutrients - Information on fats, saturated fats, carbohydrates, sugars, proteins, and salt content.
Effective communication
Ensure all food information is communicated effectively to consumers through:
- Menus and displays - Clearly list allergen information on menus and display boards.
- Digital platforms - Use websites and apps to provide detailed food information, ensuring it is accessible to all customers.
Regular audits and reviews
Conduct regular audits to ensure compliance with FIR. This includes:
- Internal audits - Regularly review labelling practices and update information as necessary.
- External audits - Engage third-party auditors to provide an unbiased assessment of compliance levels.
Recommendations
Utilise compliance software
Adopting a robust compliance management system, such as ComplyPlus™, can streamline the process of meeting FIR requirements. ComplyPlus™ offers features such as:
- Automated labelling - Ensuring all food products are correctly labelled with allergen and nutritional information.
- Training modules - Providing comprehensive training for staff on FIR compliance.
- Audit trails - Maintaining detailed records of compliance activities for auditing purposes.
Invest in staff training
Continuous staff training is paramount. Ensure that all employees are well-versed in FIR requirements through:
- Regular training sessions - Conducting periodic training to keep staff updated on regulatory changes.
- E-learning modules - Utilising online training platforms to provide flexible learning options.
Engage with customers
Actively communicate with customers about food safety practices and encourage feedback. This can be achieved through:
- Surveys and feedback forms - Collecting customer input on food labelling and safety practices.
- Customer service channels - Providing clear channels for customers to ask questions and receive information about food products.
Conclusion
The Food Information Regulations 2014 are integral to ensuring food safety and consumer confidence. By effectively understanding and implementing these regulations, businesses can protect their customers and enhance their reputation. For comprehensive compliance solutions, consider integrating ComplyPlus™ legislation, regulatory compliance management software, and training into your operations. Stay informed, stay compliant, and safeguard your business with ComplyPlus™.
Ensure your business is fully compliant with the Food Information Regulations 2014. Discover how ComplyPlus™ can streamline your compliance efforts and provide essential training for your staff. Click here to learn more and take the first step towards enhanced food safety and customer trust.
About the author
Dr Richard Dune
With over 20 years of experience, Richard blends a rich background in NHS, the private sector, academia, and research settings. His forte lies in clinical R&D, advancing healthcare tech, workforce development and governance. His leadership ensures regulatory compliance and innovation align seamlessly.