The way food processors and manufacturers can label their products is changing. With many of the changes likely to come into force over the next year, businesses are advised to familiarise themselves with the proposals to ensure they do not fall foul.

The key changes include:

Allergen labelling

By 13 December 2014, where and how allergen labelling appears on a label will change. The main changes relate to where the advice is given. Information is currently provided in separate allergen boxes, or separate from the ingredient list. From December 2014 the allergens should be located in the main ingredient list, but additionally, highlighted in bold.

Nutrition labelling

From 2016, it will be mandatory to provide nutrition information on the back of packaging, whereas previously nutrition information was provided on a voluntary basis unless a nutrition claim was made.

Companies which already provide nutrition information will be required to comply with the new rules for nutrition labelling by 13 December 2014, whereas companies which currently do not provide nutrition labelling will have until 13 December 2016 to implement the required measures.

Country of origin labelling - unprocessed meat

From April 2015, it will be a mandatory requirement to state the country of origin or place of provenance for unprocessed fresh, chilled and frozen meat of swine, sheep, goats and poultry. It will be a mandatory requirement to state, on the label, in which country (or countries) an animal was reared and slaughtered.

Comprehensive guidance to assist businesses with compliance is to be rolled out over the coming year, however further updates will follow as the changes are implemented.

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.