My late uncle lived with ulcerative colitis, a condition that forced him to constantly watch what he ate and undergo several treatment options . Now, my boyfriend faces the same daily battle. Watching him stress every time we eat out, worried that a single hidden ingredient could leave him in pain for days is heartbreaking. And he’s not alone. Thousands of people across the UK with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), including Crohn’s Disease and ulcerative colitis, face the same fears every time they consider dining out.

For many with these conditions, common ingredients like onion and garlic can trigger painful and even debilitating flare-ups. These are ingredients that are commonly used for flavor, but because most restaurants don’t clearly list every ingredient, people with IBD are left guessing or avoiding eating out altogether. No one should have to choose between enjoying a meal with their loved ones and protecting their health.

This isn't about preference, it's about safety. A simple ingredient list can make the difference between a safe, enjoyable meal and days of pain, discomfort and missed work. 

We’re asking UK restaurants to be more transparent. Please list all ingredients in dishes clearly on menus or make this information easily available upon request. It’s a small step that would make an absolutely massive impact.

By doing this, restaurants not only protect their customers’ health, they also create more welcoming dining experiences for everyone. Offering substitutions and alternatives would make meals more accessible to the wider population and would build loyalty among people who often feel left out of the dining scene.

No one should have to live in fear of a hidden ingredient. Let’s make dining out safe and stress-free for people with IBD and other dietary needs.

Please sign this petition and support a more transparent, compassionate food industry across the UK.