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Written question asked by John Grady (Labour) on Monday, 19 January 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 21 January 2026. It was answered by Ashley Dalton (Labour) on Tuesday, 27 January 2026 on behalf of the Department of Health and Social Care.

Legumes: Allergies

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, if he will take steps to ensure that food products include labels on pea and legume allergies.

Answer

There are a large number of potential food ingredients that may cause allergic reactions in sensitised individuals. The current 14 regulated allergens are recognised as the most common and potent allergens of public health concern across Europe. They must be clearly identified on prepacked foods and communicated effectively when eating out. Although peas and other legumes are not regulated allergens, they must still be declared in the ingredients list when they are intentionally used in any prepacked food products.

The Food Standards Agency continues to work to make it easier for people with food hypersensitivities, such as allergies, intolerances, and coeliac disease, to have access to clear and accurate information which is a fundamental part of its work. Its research can be found at the following link:

https://www.food.gov.uk/research/food-hypersensitivity

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
106747
Session
2024-26
Subjects
Labelling Allergies Legumes
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk