GS1 has revealed a worryingly high number of people within the food industry are unaware of the Natasha’s Law legislation coming into effect on 1 October, according to new research.

It’s been reported that four in ten across the food industry have never heard of Natasha’s Law, despite the new legislation coming into effect in a matter of weeks. The research also showed that eight in ten food business owners admitted they felt unprepared for the new food regulations coming into effect, despite 90% saying that they have received plenty of information about the new law.

Employees working for chain or franchise companies seem to be more aware of the changes, with approximately 50 percent saying they had heard of Natasha’s Law.

One fifth of small independent businesses feel the new legislation is coming too soon and they haven’t been given them enough time to adopt and prepare for the changes they are required to make, however, only two percent of food chains and franchises held this view. GS1 UK has said that only 48 percent of employees in small independent businesses have heard of Natasha’s Law, which could potentially pose a major health risk to consumers, this is a stark difference compared to the 79 percent of employees from chains and franchises who were aware.

Despite there being agreement across the board concerning the implementation of the new regulations, just over half of small and medium sized businesses have taken steps to be in a good position ahead of the new law. The research suggests just 39 per cent are providing training on types of allergens and more than one in five say that they are awaiting further training and guidance. Getting ready for new legislation takes time and money and 67 per cent believe there should be more financial support from the government to help businesses with the transition.

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