

Include Peas as a Recognized Allergen in the UK


Include Peas as a Recognized Allergen in the UK
The Issue
My son has a pea allergy and has been hospitalised on several occasions due to this life-threatening condition. This has caused immense uncertainty regarding food choices and the safety of what he consumes every day.
Imagine not being able to trust the food labels or constantly worrying about the presence of hidden allergens in everyday grocery items. This is the reality for my family and others coping with pea allergies.
Currently, the UK law does not recognise peas as an official allergen, which creates a significant risk for individuals like my son. With growing trends in food manufacturing, pea protein and derivatives are increasingly being used in a variety of products without explicit labeling. This oversight endangers the lives of those with pea allergies by exposing them to potential allergic reactions.
According to research, food allergies affect approximately 7% of children in the UK. While several common allergens are legally required to be declared on product labels, emerging allergens like peas have not yet been universally acknowledged. This gap in the legal framework can result in life-threatening situations and severe health risks for individuals with allergies.
To ensure the safety and well-being of everyone, including those with life-threatening pea allergies, we urge the UK government to amend current allergen legislation. By officially recognising peas as a major allergen, manufacturers will be obligated to label products that contain pea-based ingredients. This transparency is vital for allergy sufferers to make informed decisions regarding their diet and health.
If you believe in the right to safe food and wish to protect individuals with severe allergies, please support this petition to include peas as a recognised allergen in the UK. Your signature can help us bring about a critical change and provide peace of mind for families affected by pea allergies. Sign this petition today to make our food system safer for everyone.
43
The Issue
My son has a pea allergy and has been hospitalised on several occasions due to this life-threatening condition. This has caused immense uncertainty regarding food choices and the safety of what he consumes every day.
Imagine not being able to trust the food labels or constantly worrying about the presence of hidden allergens in everyday grocery items. This is the reality for my family and others coping with pea allergies.
Currently, the UK law does not recognise peas as an official allergen, which creates a significant risk for individuals like my son. With growing trends in food manufacturing, pea protein and derivatives are increasingly being used in a variety of products without explicit labeling. This oversight endangers the lives of those with pea allergies by exposing them to potential allergic reactions.
According to research, food allergies affect approximately 7% of children in the UK. While several common allergens are legally required to be declared on product labels, emerging allergens like peas have not yet been universally acknowledged. This gap in the legal framework can result in life-threatening situations and severe health risks for individuals with allergies.
To ensure the safety and well-being of everyone, including those with life-threatening pea allergies, we urge the UK government to amend current allergen legislation. By officially recognising peas as a major allergen, manufacturers will be obligated to label products that contain pea-based ingredients. This transparency is vital for allergy sufferers to make informed decisions regarding their diet and health.
If you believe in the right to safe food and wish to protect individuals with severe allergies, please support this petition to include peas as a recognised allergen in the UK. Your signature can help us bring about a critical change and provide peace of mind for families affected by pea allergies. Sign this petition today to make our food system safer for everyone.
43
Supporter Voices
Petition Updates
Share this petition
Petition created on 24 August 2025