FIC, FIR and food sold loose

The long-awaited domestic Food Information Regulation (FIR) has finally been published; this is not to be confused with the EU Food Information to Consumers Regulation (FIC). Although very closely related, the two are quite different: the European FIC describes how to label food and sets a common standard across all EU Member States, whereas the domestic FIR enables the execution and enforcement of the FIC in the UK. The FIR, however, does more than just that, as it contains some national labelling provisions that are not specifically found in the FIC:

• The presence of allergens in foods sold loose may be indicated by any means the food business operator chooses, including orally. Businesses that adopt the oral approach must ensure that there is a visible notice at the place where the purchaser chooses the food that allergen information is available from a member of staff.
• The FIR also requires the name of the food and, where appropriate, the meat percentage to be given on foods sold loose. This continues existing practice and so should not present any difficulty.
• Some aspects of the old labelling law have been given a stay of execution in what are known as 'sunset clauses'. This means that they can remain in place for a period of time. So if you are labelling alcohol, cream or cheese, be aware that some of the old labelling rules are retained until 13 December 2018.

Contact: Regulatory Advice
regulatoryadvice@campdenbri.co.uk