Owen's Law and FSA guidance, explained simply

In short: UK venues already need to give guests accurate allergen information. The Food Standards Agency wants that information to be clear and written, not only spoken. Owen's Law is a campaign that wants written allergen information to become a legal requirement. Menucurist helps you show guests what they can eat in writing, while you stay in control of the data.

What the FSA expects today

If you sell food in England, Wales or Northern Ireland, you must give guests accurate allergen information. Best practice from the Food Standards Agency is to make that information clear and written, with solid processes behind the counter, rather than relying on a quick question to the kitchen alone.

Official guidance:FSA allergen guidance for food businesses.

Why written beats verbal

Venues are already expected to be able to give guests accurate allergen information, whether that is asked for verbally or in writing. But a verbal answer is only as reliable as the person giving it, on a busy Saturday night, under pressure, that is a real source of risk. Menucurist removes that risk: every guest gets the same accurate, written answer, whether it is a quiet Tuesday lunch or a packed Saturday night.

What is Owen's Law?

Owen's Law is named after Owen Carey, who died after a severe allergic reaction when dining out. The campaign argues that allergen information for guests dining out should be written and easy to see, not only given verbally if someone asks.

It is not finished law yet. Details may change. Venues should follow primary sources and current rules. Campaign context:Anaphylaxis UK on Owen's Law.

How Menucurist helps

Guests tell Menucurist what to avoid. You get a personalised digital menu of dishes they can order, based on the ingredients and allergens you have entered. That supports clear, written information for guests, covering the UK's 14 regulated allergens and any other ingredient they need to exclude.

It is a hospitality tool. It does not replace staff training, kitchen processes, or checking that your ingredient data is right.

Your responsibility

You are fully responsible for the accuracy of the allergen and ingredient information you provide. Menucurist does not verify, check or guarantee that data. Guests should still tell staff about allergies before ordering, and venues should follow current FSA and local authority requirements.