Nut labelling 'confused'

Thursday 13 June 2002

Labelling of products that may contain nuts is inconsistent and often confusing, says a report published today (13 June 2002) by the Food Standards Agency.

People with nut allergy have to be extremely careful that the food they eat does not contain nuts and is not contaminated with nuts during production. But the new report, commissioned by the Agency from the Anaphylaxis Campaign, shows that manufacturers use a wide variety of phrases to describe traces of nut contamination and the warning is often difficult to find on labels.

Consumers have complained that these warnings are overused and can unnecessarily restrict consumer choice. They are also concerned that overuse undermines the importance of valid warnings.

The report shows that:

• More than half (56%) of the products in an average shopping basket were labelled with a phrase to indicate the presence of nuts
• Phrases used to describe nut trace contamination include 'may contain nut or nut traces', 'not suitable for nut allergy sufferers' and 'made in a production area that uses nuts'
• Of the products examined, 11% carried allergen information in a different place on the label to the ingredient listing
• The shopper avoiding nuts took an average of 7 minutes, almost 30 seconds longer per item, to purchase a basket of 16 items

Dr Catherine Boyle, head of Allergy and Food Intolerance at the Agency, said: 'The Food Standards Agency recognises that "may contain" labelling is essential to allergy sufferers, and that manufacturers are striving to provide this information.

However this report confirms that consumers are concerned and confused about the inconsistent way this information is communicated.

'Using "may contain" as a blanket insurance policy has a real impact on nut allergy sufferers as they find their choice of even the most basic of food items significantly restricted. We would encourage manufacturers to re-examine the labels they are using in light of this report, and will be working closely with them to develop new guidelines that are both practical and helpful.'

The Agency is to use the report's findings to consult the public and stakeholders on the best ways to improve the situation for people with a nut allergy.