Important Allergens to Display: Understanding Food Allergies

Food allergies can affect anyone, and it's crucial for businesses to be aware of the important allergens to display clearly for customer safety. While any food can potentially cause an allergy, there are specific allergens that are more commonly linked to severe reactions. Understanding these allergens is essential for both food service employees and customers alike.

The 14 Major Food Allergens

Most food intolerances and allergies are associated with the following allergens:

• Milk
• Eggs
• Soya
• Peanuts
• Celery
• Mustard
• Sesame
• Fish
• Shellfish (including molluscs like mussels, whelks, oysters, snails, and squid)
• Crustaceans (such as prawns, crabs, lobster, and crayfish)
• Lupin (found in certain types of bread, pastries, and pasta)
• Gluten (present in wheat-based products)
• Sulfur Dioxide and Sulphites (used as preservatives)
• Tree Nuts (including almonds, hazelnuts, walnuts, brazil nuts, cashews, pecans, pistachios, and macadamia nuts)

Recognising Allergic Reactions

Allergic reactions can manifest in various ways. Common symptoms include:

• Tingling or swelling of the mouth, nose, or throat
• Cramps
• Difficulty breathing
• Rashes
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea

Severe Reactions In severe cases, allergic reactions can lead to anaphylactic shock, a life-threatening condition where blood pressure and heart rate can drop dangerously low. Without immediate treatment, this can be fatal within minutes, underscoring the necessity for businesses to be vigilant about allergens.

Importance of Clear Labeling

It's imperative for food service providers to be aware of their customers' food allergies. Foods must be labeled clearly, and allergenic foods should be handled, stored, and cooked with particular care. This not only protects the health of customers but also helps businesses comply with legal requirements regarding food safety.