THE Regulatory team at Stephensons Solicitors has launched a dedicated legal helpline for businesses in the health food industry.

The firm, which has a St Helens office, has identified a gap in the market for the advice line after seeing a surge in demand from businesses confused by red tape, or already facing prosecution.

The 24/7 all-year round link provides direct access to Stephensons’ team of regulatory solicitors which can advise on how to avoid costly regulatory offences in relation to the packaging and advertising of their products.

Regulatory partner Sean Joyce said: “There have been many examples of mainstream brands facing the Advertising Standards Agency watchdog over claims they have made on packaging or in advertising their brands.

“Two of the key ways in which a product must conform to Government standards are in packaging and advertising and unfortunately this is where we also see the most occasions of businesses falling foul of the regulations.”

He added: “Even the slightest errors can have costly consequences. The cost of advertising strategies can be very significant for businesses, especially for smaller companies seeking to outmanoeuvre their larger rivals.”

The helpline can be accessed on 0844 243 5425.