The 14 allergens
UK food law names 14 allergens that must be declared, including milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, soya, cereals containing gluten and sesame. On prepacked sweets they are emphasised in the ingredients list, usually in bold.
Loose sweets and pick 'n' mix
Sweets sold loose do not come with an ingredient label on each piece, but the seller must be able to give you allergen information — on a sign, a chart or by asking. Sweets that are packed on the premises before you buy them ("prepacked for direct sale") need a full ingredient label with allergens emphasised, under what is known as Natasha's Law.
"May contain"
A "may contain" statement is a voluntary warning about possible cross-contamination in the factory. If you have a serious allergy, take it seriously.
Colour warnings
Six artificial colours (E102, E104, E110, E122, E124 and E129) must carry the warning "may have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children". Many manufacturers now use colours from fruit and vegetables instead.
General information. If you or your child has a food allergy, always check the label or ask the seller, and follow your doctor's advice.