ISLANDERS with life-threatening food allergies deserve the same protection as people in more than 100 other countries, a campaigner has said as he called for action on long-awaited food safety rules.
Dominic Jones, who is a co-founder of the Jersey Food Allergy Group, urged ministers to implement regulations requiring clearer food labelling and better allergen management.
The Food (Jersey) Regulations were approved by the States Assembly in March but have yet to come into force.
“Jersey remains behind more than 100 countries that have introduced food allergen requirements to make buying food safer,” said Mr Jones.
“The thousands of Islanders and many more visitors to Jersey living with life-threatening food allergies deserve the same protection without further delay.”
The rules would require clear allergen labelling on pre-packaged food and full ingredient lists for food that is not pre-packaged, alongside improved hygiene standards and staff training.
Mr Jones, who has a child with a food allergy, said the proposals had already undergone extensive consultation and reflected requirements operating successfully in the UK and EU.
“Indeed, many local businesses already follow the best practice reflected in the draft regulations,” he added.
An intended commencement date of 1 October was removed before approval following Scrutiny concerns about giving businesses time to prepare.
Mr Jones said he understood those concerns centred on a connected but separate food business registration scheme and its fees.
“I hope those issues can be addressed separately, allowing the carefully considered food allergy regulations to proceed urgently,” he added.
The Infrastructure and Environment Department confirmed that Planning Minister Sir Mark Boleat intended to introduce the rules during his term.
Officers will work with industry representatives over the coming months to ensure businesses have time to prepare and comply.
A separate Commencement Act requires Assembly approval, but has not yet been lodged.
