Common allergens must be declared on South African food labels, but a “may contain” warning is voluntary and inconsistent. For a severe allergy, the absence of a precautionary warning is not an assurance. Ask the manufacturer directly rather than inferring safety from silence.
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Living with a serious food allergy
Labels change without notice, including on a product you have bought for years.
- Read the ingredient list every time, not just the front of the pack.
- Tell a restaurant when booking and again when ordering. A kitchen warned in advance can tell you honestly whether it can accommodate you.
- Carry prescribed adrenaline if you have been prescribed it, check the expiry date, and make sure people around you know where it is and how to use it.
- Loose or unpackaged foods carry no label. Ask, and accept that the answer may be uncertain.
Anaphylaxis is an emergency
Difficulty breathing, throat tightness, swelling of the lips or tongue, collapse or widespread hives after eating needs adrenaline and an ambulance immediately. Use the auto-injector first and call afterwards; do not wait to see whether it settles.
Ambulance is 10177, or 112 from a mobile. Labelling and food safety complaints go to the municipal environmental health department, and product concerns to the national health authorities. Verified 26 August 2026.