Oldham Council is issuing a warning after the director of a tea shop was fined for continually breaking food Labelling laws.
In October 2021 Natasha’s Law was introduced to protect the millions of allergen sufferers across the country.
Since then, all food businesses must include the full ingredients on the label of any food they are selling over the counter.
The law was introduced following the tragic death of Natasha Ednan-Laperouse.
The teenager died after suffering an allergic reaction to a Pret a Manger baguette that contained sesame seeds that she was allergic to. There was no allergen information on the label.
Unfortunately, some businesses continue to flout the law – including Uncles Tea Hut, Manchester Street, Oldham.
On a visit to the Manchester Street shop Food Hygiene officers noticed that packaged cakes were being sold that did not have any labelling on them.
Staff were advised of the law and a legal notice was served on the premises.
However, during a follow up visit more unlabelled cakes were discovered.
Legal proceedings were launched, and the shop’s director pleaded guilty to breaking the Food Information Law at Tameside Magistrates on December 4.
Muzafar Iqbal, of Highfield Drive, Oldham was ordered to pay £2,088 in fines, a victim surcharge and costs.
Councillor, Chris Goodwin, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, said: “The safety and wellbeing of residents and consumers in Oldham is a priority for this council and I hope this prosecution serves as a warning to food shops across the borough.
“If you are selling food that doesn’t have ingredients on the labelling you could be putting someone’s life at risk.
“Don’t take that gamble – don’t sell anything without the ingredients on. If you do, then you could end up in court.”