Allergies are on the up
As the sun starts to shine, pollen bombs descend – setting off a domino effect of twitching noses and streaming eyes around the country. And while the summer sniffles are frustrating, hay fever isn’t the only allergic reaction that’s gathered momentum in recent years. There are between 2 and 3 million people estimated to be living with food allergies in the UK, and as this number increases, so does the proportion of those with hypersensitivity to certain ingredients.
The most extreme cases arise in those with anaphylaxis, a life-threatening condition that demands an immediate emergency response. In 2023, there were 5,013 hospital admissions in the UK for food-related anaphylaxis – up from 1,971 twenty years before. Read on to learn how this affects employers and consumers and how to reduce the risks.
When food turns fatal: the consequences of unclear communication
With food allergies affecting between 5 and 8 percent of children in the UK, young people are particularly at risk of harm. And when messaging around potential allergens isn’t clear, the consequences can be lethal. This was the case with 18-year-old Owen Carey in 2017, who informed staff at a Byron Burger restaurant of his dairy allergies, then suffered a fatal reaction after being served buttermilk-coated chicken.
A similar incident occurred the year before on a British Airways flight, when Natasha Ednan-Laperouse, just 15 years old, lost her life after an allergic reaction to a Pret A Manger baguette. This tragic event brought about Natasha’s Law – which mandates that all pre-packed foods for direct sale must come with a complete ingredient list and clearly show any allergenic substances.
Protecting people protects your brand
Given the gravity of what can happen when protocols are breached, it’s not surprising that penalties can be drastic. In fact, food safety offences can result in convictions ranging from imprisonment to unlimited fines. This was the case with Tesco in 2021, which was fined a staggering £7.56 million for selling expired food at three of its Birmingham stores. Incidents like this highlight why clear communication and detailed product knowledge should always be at the forefront of food service. Neglecting this doesn’t just endanger individuals but can also severely damage your brand’s reputation.
Stay safety savvy with 14forty
Food safety can seem like a lot to worry about, especially when severe allergies are becoming more common.
The good news is that FM and contract catering companies can play a big role in managing these concerns on your behalf. Not only do experts work together to craft menus that are varied, healthy, and delicious, but they also cater to almost every dietary requirement, putting wellbeing at the centre of their practice.
At 14forty, we take health and safety seriously, and we’re proud to have recently won the RoSPA Gold Award for Health and Safety. Our operational teams follow established allergen management procedures, always working to manage risks. With the right partners, your workplace can stay safe, and you can focus on what counts.
