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<p>The terms ‘Vegetarian’ and ‘Vegan’ do not currently have legal definitions in the
UK, but the use of these and indeed any term on food, whether retailed from a shop
or on a menu for out-of-home sale, must not be misleading to consumers. <br> <br>
In order not to mislead, manufacturers, retailers and caterers should be able to demonstrate
that where foods are presented as 'vegetarian' reasonable steps have been taken to
avoid cross-contamination with non-vegetarian foods during storage, preparation, cooking
or display. Food law provides a robust framework that protects public health and consumer
interests and requires food businesses that produce, process, and distribute food
to apply food safety controls that ensure food they place on the market is safe and
is what it says it is. This includes avoiding cross contamination of foods including
ensuring that work areas, surfaces and equipment used for raw and ready-to-eat food
are adequately separated.</p><p><br> While it may not be possible to avoid cross-contamination
in a busy kitchen, it is incumbent on a food business to ensure that all reasonable
steps are taken to avoid cross-contamination and where appropriate, to inform customers
where there is a risk</p><p><br> Trading standards officers attached to the Local
Authority are responsible for checking compliance with the food information requirements.</p>
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