Proposed Food Law Introduced to Safeguard Allergy Sufferers

Jersey’s Environment Department has drafted a new law aimed at protecting people with food allergies by introducing clear regulations and guidance for food businesses.

The proposed legislation forms part of broader reforms designed to align the island with standards in the UK and the EU. At present, there are no mandatory rules governing food safety for allergy sufferers, with compliance largely voluntary. Officials have raised concerns that the lack of regulation could impact tourism, as visitors’ health might be at risk.

Under the draft Food Law, food businesses would be required to:

• Provide allergy labelling on pre-packaged foods

• List full ingredients for non-packaged items

• Maintain higher food hygiene standards

• Train staff in allergy awareness and food safety

  
  

However, the law would not apply in certain community and home-based scenarios, such as:

• Cakes prepared by home bakers for school or charity events

• Traditional dishes for cultural celebrations, such as Lunar New Year

• Food made for wakes or parish/community meals

• Volunteer-run events, including soup kitchens, youth group activities, or office treats

• School cookery classes where children bring their own ingredients

While these cases would be exempt from formal labelling and licensing, the draft legislation encourages those preparing or serving the food to follow good hygiene and safety practices.

The draft Food Law is expected to be debated in the States Assembly in early 2026.