Leicestershire’s Trading Standards food team is reminding people to be allergy aware when eating out or ordering takeaways this summer – and to report any food businesses which are not doing what they should to protect food allergy sufferers.
Many people eat out more during the summer months – particularly when they go away on holiday – increasing the risk to sufferers of potentially dangerous or life-threatening food allergies.
Younger people can be at greater risk, especially if they feel embarrassed, or do not want to stand out by asking about food allergens when out with their friends. As a result, they may not advise a restaurant of their allergy or ask for the information they need to ensure they can safely eat the food they order.
The responsibility for ensuring food is safe to eat lies with the business serving that food, and businesses serving food are required by law to be able to provide accurate information about any allergens in the food they sell when asked. They must also display a notice advising that this information is available.
Trading Standards food officers are reminding people to play their part in making everyone feel comfortable to speak up about their allergy and feel safe when eating out.
Leicestershire Trading Standards food team works with the food businesses of Leicestershire to ensure that they are aware of the legal requirements, and that the systems they have in place mean their business is a safe place for someone with an allergy to eat. They also take action where necessary to prevent those businesses who do not comply with the law from causing harm to their customers.
Ensuring food safety for all is one of our top priorities, and it is very important that we are all aware of the risks to those with allergies, when going about our daily lives.
If you go to a restaurant that you believe may not be doing what they should be, or you have an allergy and you experience a business which is unable to provide you with the information you need to eat safely, please report it to Trading Standards.Person:Councillor Deborah Taylor, cabinet member for regulatory services
Trading Standards is also able to help food businesses ensure they are complying with all relevant legislation. Information is available from the Food Standards Agency, or from Leicestershire Trading Standards on 0116 305 8000.
Anyone who would like to report a business which they believe to not be complying their food allergen legislation can do so through the Trading Standards reporting form.