PEAL Allergen Labelling Explained: What Your Food Business Needs to Know in 2025
Launching a food product is exciting—but getting the label right is critical, especially when it comes to allergen information. That’s where PEAL (Plain English Allergen Labelling) comes in. PEAL transformed the way allergens are declared in Australia—making them clearer, consistent, and safer for consumers.
At NutriLabel Solutions, we’re all about making compliance friendly, simple, and error-free. Let’s break it down.
What is PEAL?
Plain English Allergen Labelling (PEAL) is a standard introduced by FSANZ to make allergens easier to find and understand on food labels. Though it was introduced in February 2021, manufacturers had until 25 February 2024 to update labels and until 25 February 2026 to use up old-stock packaging under a “stock-in-trade” rule.
Why It Matters
PEAL helps consumers quickly spot allergens—critical for health and peace of mind. Many food allergic reactions happen due to unclear labels. PEAL aims to eliminate that risk.
Key PEAL Requirements
1. Specific Terminology (Plain English)
You must use precise, plain-language allergen names. Avoid ambiguous terms like “tree nuts”; instead say “almond,” “cashew,” etc. Be consistent with required names as listed in Schedule 9.
2. Bold and Visible in Ingredient List
All allergens must be declared in the ingredient list in bold font, clearly contrasting with surrounding text, and in font size equal to or larger than the rest of the ingredient list.
3. Allergen Summary—“Contains…” Statement
You must include a summary statement starting with “Contains” (also in bold), listing all declared allergens. It should be in the same field of view as the ingredient list but visually separated for clarity. Font size must match ingredient list formatting.
Example:
contains Milk, Almond, Gluten
4. Specify Complex Categories
Certain groups must be itemised individually:
Gluten-containing cereals: wheat, barley, oats, rye—declare each if present, and include “gluten” in the summary if those are present.
Tree nuts: each nut must be declared separately—no “tree nuts” catch-all
Seafood allergens: fish, crustacea, and mollusc must be listed individually.
5. Transition Timeline
By 25 February 2024: All new products must comply with PEAL.
Until 25 February 2026: You may still sell older stock labelled under pre-PEAL rules.
6. Voluntary PAL (Precautionary Allergen Labelling)
Statements like “May contain nuts” remain voluntary. Note that these are not regulated under the Food Standards Code. They're purely a risk management tool.
Why PEAL Matters for Your Brand
Consumer safety: Clear allergen info reduces risk of allergic reactions.
Trust: Transparent labelling builds brand credibility and confidence.
Compliance: PEAL is now law—avoiding fines or forced recalls.
Market advantage: Allergy-friendly packaging can boost appeal and differentiate.
Example at a Glance
Ingredients: Sugar, Milk, Cocoa Powder (milk), Almond, Wheat (gluten)
Bottom Summary:
Contains Milk, Almond, Gluten
All in bold, with plain English names, and visually spot-on—thanks to PEAL.
Need Help Making Your Labelling PEAL-Compliant?
At NutriLabel Solutions, we take the guesswork out. From verifying required names to bold formatting, positioning, and beyond—we’ve got your labels covered.
Want a label review, label redesign, or training for your kitchen or team? We can help you transition smoothly to PEAL, so every consumer is safer and better informed.
Reach out via the website to schedule a consultation or request a review.