Living with a sensitivity to artificial sweeteners is not just a mere inconvenience; it's a daily challenge fraught with uncertainty, discomfort, and embarrassment. For me and my daughter, consuming products with these additives unknowingly can lead to instant diarrhoea and debilitating abdominal pain. Unfortunately, our experience is not unique — countless individuals across the UK suffer similar symptoms, yet find themselves without essential information about which products contain these substances.

Unlike major allergens that are clearly listed on food and drink labels, artificial sweeteners often remain undisclosed, or at best, misleadingly labeled. This lack of transparency forces us into uncomfortable situations, whether it's explaining our dietary needs at restaurants where staff are often unaware or simply trying to purchase affordable, safe food and drink that do not contain these additives.

Our aim with this petition is simple yet crucial: Recognize artificial sweeteners as allergens and provide consumers with clear labeling on products. This change should include placing artificial sweeteners on the allergens list officially, ensuring they are prominently displayed and easily identifiable by consumers, much like nuts or gluten. This transparency can prevent the painful and humiliating episodes that too many of us currently endure and ensure equal access to information for all consumers.

It's time we hold food and drink manufacturers accountable for the clarity of their product labeling. It's essential for the health and well-being of individuals like myself and my daughter. We deserve the right to make informed choices about what we consume without facing obstacles or an overwhelming financial burden.

By signing this petition, you are advocating for transparency and inclusivity. You are supporting the health and dignity of those affected by artificial sweeteners and demanding change from the food industry to recognize and act on the real impact these substances have on countless lives. Let's come together to make a substantial difference in labeling standards, for the well-being of all consumers in the UK.