BetterRetailing reveals independent retailers among most compliant businesses following Natasha’s Law

A Freedom of Information request by BetterRetailing has revealed that independent retailers were among the most compliant businesses following UK-wide Natasha’s Law within its first year. The legislation, which came into effect in October 2021, requires businesses to list the full name of the product and all of its ingredients on the packaging, and state if it contains any of the 14 major allergens.

The article highlights the importance of retailers complying with the legislation to avoid potential fines and to ensure the safety of their customers. It also emphasizes the challenges faced by some independent retailers in complying with the law, including rising staff costs and operational expenses.

Of the 1,367 businesses found to be selling non-compliant products between October 2021 and October 2022, 4% were independent retailers. The data also revealed that 20 supermarkets and one forecourt breached the law during the period.

The data analysis further showed that hospitality businesses had the highest number of breaches, with 487 offending businesses classed as restaurants, cafes and takeaways. Food banks, mobile vans, manufacturers and football clubs were among the other businesses identified as breaching the legislation.
Meanwhile, 18 councils did not hold any information, while 33 councils said they recorded no breaches of Natasha’s Law in the period. The data is significant as it provides insight into how retailers are responding to the legislation, which has caused rising costs and potential fines associated with allergen legislation.