New allergen labelling rules in pipeline

Jersey is gearing up for a change in how food is regulated, with new rules covering everything from allergen labelling to hygiene standard set to kick in from October 2026.

The draft food regulations aim to modernise food safety laws and put consumer health first, said Environment Minister Steve Luce.

The proposals went through a 10-week public consultation over the summer, attracting 129 responses from islanders and food businesses.

One key area was allergen labelling, with respondents backing legal requirements to protect people with allergies.

Luce said the goal was to "protect public health without piling unnecessary pressure on businesses".

Not every situation will fall under the new rules. Cakes baked for school fêtes, charity sales, or family events like wakes will stay out of scope. Charities that do not operate as food businesses are also excluded.

Guidance would be published well before the start date, he said.

The minister promised a "light-touch approach where possible, but always with public health as the priority".

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