TikTok Sellers Failing to Provide Allergen Information, Putting Consumers at Risk, BBC Investigation Finds
A recent investigation by the BBC has revealed that numerous sellers on TikTok Shop are offering food products without disclosing legally mandated allergen information. This oversight presents significant health risks for allergy sufferers, who rely on accurate labelling to avoid potentially life-threatening reactions.
UK food safety laws require businesses to clearly identify the presence of the 14 main allergens in all food products. Despite this, the BBC found multiple examples of products sold on TikTok Shop that lacked clear allergen declarations. Among the sellers highlighted were Mega Buy UK, The Nashville Burger, and UK Snack Supply, all of which offered food items with incomplete or misleading ingredient and allergen descriptions.
For example, The Nashville Burger sold a burger-making kit containing milk and wheat both major allergens but listed the ingredients simply as “flour” and “spices,” failing to meet the standards of Natasha’s Law. This law, introduced after the tragic death of Natasha Ednan-Laperouse from an allergic reaction, requires comprehensive allergen labeling on pre-packaged foods sold in the UK.
Simon Williams, Chief Executive of Anaphylaxis UK, warned consumers:
“If the ingredient and allergen information isn’t there, don’t buy it. You’re putting your life in grave danger.”
Following the BBC’s report, TikTok removed several listings that breached their policies. A TikTok spokesperson stated,
“TikTok Shop is committed to providing a safe and trustworthy shopping experience and will remove products that violate our policies.”
However, the investigation found that many sellers continue to offer products without proper allergen information.
Tanya Ednan-Laperouse, co-founder of The Natasha Allergy Research Foundation, emphasized the platform’s responsibility:
“TikTok should ensure that all food sellers on its platform comply with UK legislative requirements. Sellers who fail to do so should be removed and investigated promptly.”
Dr. James Cooper, Deputy Director of Food Policy at the Food Standards Agency (FSA), reinforced the legal obligations of food businesses:
“Food sold online must be safe and accurately labeled. Allergen information must be provided clearly at two points: in the product description and on the packaging.”
The FSA highlights that failure to provide allergen information when selling food remotely such as through online platforms, breaches UK food safety regulations.
With millions of users turning to TikTok Shop for food purchases, this investigation underscores the urgent need for stronger oversight and enforcement. Allergy charities and food safety experts urge TikTok to implement rigorous checks to protect consumers and ensure compliance with established food safety laws.
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