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
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.