Food sold in Jersey will have to list allergens

Businesses in Jersey that sell food will have to make sure details of any ingredients that could cause an allergic reaction are available to customers.

The States Assembly has passed new laws that agreed with the latest plans from the environment minister to make sure people with allergies can eat safely.

The government said the laws would bring in a clear obligation on food businesses for ensuring food was safe, help track food more easily in case it needs to be recalled and require checks at key stages of production to improve standards.

The new regulations could be introduced later this year, once the start date has been agreed by the new States Assembly - to be chosen at June's election.

The Minister for the Environment, Deputy Steve Luce, said: "I am pleased that fellow States members have recognised the importance of introducing regulations that will modernise Jersey's food safety framework, aligning us with best practice in the UK and EU.

"I would like to reassure food businesses that persuasive compliance remains the watchword and the department will be working together with Jersey's food businesses to engage, explain and encourage, with enforcement very much a last resort.

"Finally, I hope that the next minister will complete the task and ensure that these important regulations are not forgotten or overlooked. We need them in place as soon as possible.

"My thanks to everyone who has been involved and continues to work on this important legislation."

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