All food prepared, packaged and sold directly in the place of worship must include a full ingredients list and allergen information on the labelling.
This is known as ‘Natasha’s Law’ which was introduced into law in 2021.
This does not affect food which is ‘not pre-packed’ (e.g. loose food or single item food), or food that is packaged after you have ordered (i.e., food prepared and packaged to order).
If your church offers food but is not registered as a food business, you are not legally required to provide information to consumers about any allergens present in the food.
For example, foods served during coffee mornings and voluntary outreach events or Holy Communion services would not be classified as food businesses.
However, in such cases, it would be good practice to provide allergenic ingredient information for the foods served to enable those with food allergies to make an informed choice.
You must tell your customers if any food products you sell or provide contain any of the main 14 alleregns as an ingredient.
This applies also to the additives, processing aids and any other substances which are present in the final product. For example, sulphites, which are often used to preserve dried fruit, might still be present after the fruit is used to make chutney. If this is the case, you need to declare them.
For more information please visit the foods standards agency or the government website, both of which provide comprehensive guidance in respect of food labelling:
www.food.gov.uk/business-guidance/allergen-guidance-for-food-businesses
www.gov.uk/guidance/food-labelling-giving-food-information-to-consumers