Food Safety and Allergy Signs

Up to 80% of anaphylaxis cases in children are caused by food. Poor food separation processes, plus a lack of allergen labelling and allergy awareness has sadly proven fatal in schools.

Schools in England are now expected to strengthen their approach to allergy awareness and management as part of the Department for Education's new statutory allergy guidance linked to the introduction of Benedict's Law. Schools should have clear procedures for identifying and managing allergens, reducing the risk of cross-contamination, providing accurate food information where appropriate, and raising allergy awareness among staff and pupils. Clear signs, labels and posters play an important role in supporting these procedures to reduce allergy emergencies, helping to create a safer environment wherever food is prepared, served or consumed. They are affordable, simple to implement, and effective at improving allergy safety and awareness in schools.