Comply with Plain English Allergen Labelling (PEAL)
From 25 February 2026, allergen labelling must use plain English and a standardised format.
Who must comply
Food manufacturers and suppliers of packaged food in Australia.
What triggers it
Manufacturing or supplying packaged food.
When due
From 25 February 2026 — full compliance after 3-year transition.
Evidence required
Updated labels, allergen risk assessments, supplier specifications.
Max penalty
State-based fines + product recall obligations
Effective from
25 February 2026
Summary
Standard 1.2.3 of the Food Standards Code (amended February 2024 with a 3-year transition) requires allergens to be declared on packaged food in a standardised plain-English format including a 'Contains' statement, bolding requirements, and specific terminology. Applies to packaged foods sold in Australia and New Zealand.
Enforced by
Source legislation
Industries
Topics
Related obligations
- CWLTHAppoint a certified Food Safety Supervisor (FSS)Food businesses serving ready-to-eat food must have a trained FSS reasonably available.
- CWLTHCountry of Origin Labelling for food (CoOL Information Standard)Food sold in Australia must carry country-of-origin labelling per the 2016 Information Standard.
- CWLTHImplement Food Safety Management Tool (Standard 3.2.2A)Category 1 food businesses must use a Food Safety Management Tool to verify critical controls.
- CWLTHHold organic certification before claiming 'organic'Use of 'organic' on food labels requires certification by an accredited certifier under NASAA / ACO.
- CWLTHFood Act state licensing + food safety supervisorFood businesses must register + appoint Food Safety Supervisor under state Food Acts.
- CWLTHImplement Food Safety Program where prescribed (Standard 3.2.1)High-risk food businesses must implement a documented Food Safety Program audited by a recognised food safety auditor.
Frequently asked questions
- Who must comply with Plain English Allergen Labelling (PEAL)?
- Food manufacturers and suppliers of packaged food in Australia.
- What triggers Plain English Allergen Labelling (PEAL)?
- Manufacturing or supplying packaged food.
- When is Plain English Allergen Labelling (PEAL) due?
- From 25 February 2026 — full compliance after 3-year transition.
- What is the maximum penalty for Plain English Allergen Labelling (PEAL)?
- State-based fines + product recall obligations
- What evidence is required for Plain English Allergen Labelling (PEAL)?
- Updated labels, allergen risk assessments, supplier specifications.
Source: https://foodstandards.gov.au/code/proposals/Pages/P1044.aspx. Rules Mate is not a law firm. Always verify against the live regulator source before acting.