Product safety and labelling rules for UK ecommerce
Products sold in the UK must be safe, and many categories have extra rules: toys need UKCA or CE marking, cosmetics need SCPN notification, food needs allergen information, electrical items need safety marking and scented products may need CLP hazard labels. Show key safety information on product pages as well as on the packaging.
By Abdullah Ashraf, Shopify expert · Last updated: October 2026
Quick summary
- All products must be safe.
- Toys, cosmetics, food and electricals have specific rules.
- Show safety information online too.
General safety
UK general product safety rules require products placed on the market to be safe, with warnings and instructions where needed.
Category rules
- Toys: toy safety rules and UKCA or CE marking
- Cosmetics: SCPN notification and a UK Responsible Person
- Food: allergen information and labelling
- Electrical items: safety marking and WEEE obligations
- Scented candles and chemicals: CLP labelling where required
- Upholstered furniture: fire safety labels
Online information
Customers should see important safety information before buying. Use product tabs or metafields for warnings and instructions.
Frequently asked questions
Where can I check the rules?
The Office for Product Safety and Standards and GOV.UK guidance for your category.
Do marketplaces have extra rules?
Yes, often stricter than the law.
Official sources
- Toys (Safety) Regulations 2011 (GOV.UK)
- Making cosmetic products available in Great Britain (GOV.UK)
- Electrical equipment producer responsibility (GOV.UK)
- Food business registration (GOV.UK)
Checked September 2026. Rules change, so always check the latest official guidance.
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