How to label allergens on an honesty box
Check which rules apply first
Prepacked for direct sale (PPDS) generally means food packed before selection and sold by the same business at the premises where it was packed, or at that business’s mobile or temporary outlet. Packaging must enclose the food so its contents cannot be altered without opening or changing it.
Food packed before sale and supplied to another business for resale generally falls under prepacked food rules rather than PPDS rules, with more extensive labelling requirements. Do not assume every wrapped cake falls into the same category. Trading Standards’ PPDS guide explains the distinction for England and Wales.
What goes on a PPDS label?
Include the food’s name and full ingredients list. Emphasise regulated allergens each time they appear in that list, for example with bold type. You identify the allergens actually present; you do not list all 14 on every product.
A short “contains” statement is not a substitute for the required ingredients list. Scotland’s PPDS guidance also explains the name, ingredients and allergen requirements.
Check ingredients and cross-contact risks
Use the Food Standards Agency’s list of 14 regulated allergens when checking recipes and supplier labels. Identify the relevant cereal or nut where required rather than using a vague category.
A “may contain” warning should follow a risk assessment that identifies an unavoidable cross-contact risk. It does not take the place of cleaning, separation or accurate ingredient information; see the FSA’s PPDS and precautionary allergen guidance.
Make the information usable without asking
For a self-service shed, our practical recommendation is a readable label on each packed item and clearly matched written information for loose items. Keep it beside the food, where customers can read it before buying. A payment QR code does not replace food information.
Build labels from the recipe you actually used
Keep the current recipe and supplier packaging together. Before restocking, check that any ingredient substitution has been reflected on the label. Do not copy an example label from another baker or describe a product as free from an allergen without a basis for that claim.
Ask your local food safety team to check your packaging category, allergen controls, storage instructions and date marking. Those decisions depend on your actual products and process.
Next steps for a cake shed
Our cake shed setup guide covers registration and the stall itself. For readable payment instructions, see honesty box signs.
Reviewed 1 November 2026. Check the linked official guidance for changes and advice for your location.
What are the UK allergen labelling rules for cakes sold from an unattended honesty box?
Keep labels and payment instructions clear
Put a QR code beside the cash tin, with food information easy to read before payment. No monthly subscription; 5% per payment plus Stripe fees. Customers need internet access to pay.
