What is Owen's Law and why is it being proposed?

Owen's Law is proposed legislation that would legally require restaurants to clearly list allergens on their menus, following the fatal allergic reaction of 18-year-old Owen Carey in 2017.

When did Owen Carey die and what caused his death?

Owen Carey died in April 2017 at the age of 18 after unknowingly consuming dairy, specifically buttermilk, at a London burger bar.

What progress has been made on implementing Owen's Law?

The Minister for Food Security has expressed commitment to advancing the legislation, and the father is hopeful for its swift implementation.

Home / Health / Owen's Law: Father's Fight for Safer Menus

Owen's Law: Father's Fight for Safer Menus

27 Apr

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Summary

Father campaigns for Owen's Law after son's fatal allergy.
Proposed law mandates clear allergen labeling on menus.
Government commits to reviewing legislation to prevent tragedies.

Owen's Law: Father's Fight for Safer Menus

The father of a teenager who died from an allergic reaction is pushing for new menu labeling legislation, known as "Owen's Law," to be enacted. His 18-year-old son, Owen Carey, tragically passed away in April 2017 after consuming dairy at a London burger bar, despite informing staff of his severe allergy.

Owen's Law aims to make it a legal requirement for restaurants to clearly list allergens on their menus, potentially using symbols or numbers. The Minister for Food Security has stated a commitment to progressing this legislation, and the father expressed hope for its swift implementation. This initiative follows "Natasha's Law," which was implemented in 2022 and mandates ingredient lists on pre-packaged foods after a similar tragedy.