Lack of Food Allergy Labels “Putting Lives at Risk”
What the Jersey Story Teaches Us All

In a recent BBC News report, food safety campaigners raised alarm bells over Jersey’s slow progress on allergen labelling. The current approach has been described as “dangerously unclear,” putting both residents and tourists at risk.

Despite growing awareness in the UK around severe allergic reactions and tragedies like those that inspired Natasha’s Law, Jersey remains years behind. While the government is finally launching a consultation on a new Food Law, for many families, including Neva Richardson’s—whose son has a dairy allergy—this change can’t come soon enough.

“For people that suffer with an allergy it is a matter of life or death… severe allergic reactions can lead to anaphylaxis which then can lead to death.”

🇯🇪 Jersey Isn’t Alone – But It’s Time to Catch Up

Deputy Steve Luce, Jersey’s Environment Minister, has acknowledged that businesses are prepared for change, and the proposed legislation aims to bring the island more in line with UK standards.

But this isn’t just about compliance. It’s about confidence. And that’s where digital solutions and expert support can make the difference between doing your best and being best-in-class.

Allergen Checker: A Practical Tool for a Big Problem

Designed in line with FSA guidance and Natasha’s Law, Allergen Checker makes it easy for any food business to provide clear, accurate, and accessible allergen information—whether you're running a Michelin-starred kitchen, a beachside café, or a charity food tent.

Our free starter package gives small businesses and community events access to:

• A QR-code driven digital menu, instantly displaying allergen and ingredient info
• Icons and labels to help customers easily spot allergens
• A print-ready system for packaging, displays, and menus
• Ingredient breakdowns, including E-number explanations

This kind of transparent approach doesn’t just save time. It can save lives.

How Georgina & The Nutrient Gap Can Support Jersey’s Transition

To make a real change, legislation alone isn’t enough. Businesses need guidance, training, and systems that actually work in their environment. That’s why we’re proud to collaborate with Georgina and her team at The Nutrient Gap.

With a background in nutrition, food safety, and regulatory compliance, Georgina helps food businesses implement robust allergen strategies, improve labelling processes, and train staff with confidence.

Her services include:

• Bespoke allergen audits and compliance checks
• Team training on allergen awareness and food safety
• Menu and ingredient assessments
• Consultancy for hospitality, care homes, schools, and catering teams

If Jersey is to truly modernise its approach, organisations like The Nutrient Gap offer the hands-on support needed to make this work across every food business—big or small.

“We don’t just want businesses to follow the rules—we help them create a culture of safety that works day in, day out.” – Georgina, The Nutrient Gap

Time to Take Action

From QR-code menus to expert consultancy, the tools to do this well already exist. The only thing missing is urgency—and in some cases, awareness.

Whether you’re in Jersey or on the mainland, one thing is true across the board:

Customers shouldn’t have to ask whether food is safe. The answer should already be there.

🔗 Useful Links
💻 Start using Allergen Checker for free
🧠 Explore expert services from The Nutrient Gap
📢 Read the original BBC article