Eating out is a common practice, whether it's grabbing a quick bite a fast-food outlet, enjoying a meal at a local café, or dining at your favourite restaurant. It is estimated by the Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA) that more than a million Australians are living with a diagnosed food allergy (allergy.org.au).

However, for individuals with food allergies, consuming meals prepared outside the home can be a risky ordeal, in some cases leading to hospitalisation and in other cases death. It's crucial to ensure everyone can eat out with confidence without the fear of experiencing a life-threatening reaction.

Every life lost to food allergies is one too many.

Despite the prevalence of food allergies, not all food service establishments provide clear and accurate allergen labelling. The introduction of mandatory allergen labelling is not just a safety issue but an ethical obligation to protect customers who trust these establishments with their well-being.

We urge the government to implement legislation that requires all food service establishments to label known allergens in their menu items. This should include clear identification on menus, packaging, and any promotional materials. Additionally, penalties should be enforced on establishments that fail to comply with these regulations, including significant fines. These measures will ensure accountability and emphasise the importance of customer safety.

Countries like the United Kingdom have already enacted comprehensive allergen labelling laws within their hospitality sectors, setting a precedent that should be followed internationally. 

Your signature can make eating out safer for everyone and prevent unnecessary risks to health due to allergen exposure.