Why including allergen information on your menu card is important
If you run a restaurant, café, or any kind of food service, you might wonder if it’s necessary to include information about allergens on your menu card. The answer is a resounding yes, and here’s why.
Firstly, including allergen information can prevent allergic reactions. Many people are allergic to certain foods, such as nuts, gluten, or seafood. If they accidentally consume one of their allergens, it can cause serious health consequences, including anaphylaxis. By providing clear and accurate information on your menu card about which dishes contain allergens, you can help your customers avoid any potential allergic reactions.
How to provide accurate allergen information
Now that you know why allergen information is important, let’s talk about how to provide it. One way is to list the major food allergens on your menu card, with symbols or text. In the US, the major allergens are peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, fish, soy, wheat, milk, and eggs. In the EU, the list includes even more items, such as celery, mustard, and lupin. Make sure you know which allergens are recognized in your region, and include them on your menu card in a prominent and easy-to-read manner.
Secondly, ensure that your staff is trained to handle questions about allergens. Customers with food allergies may need to ask more detailed questions about the ingredients, preparation processes, or cross-contamination risks of your menu items. Make sure your staff can answer these questions with confidence and accuracy. They should also know how to communicate any allergen-related concerns to the kitchen staff, to prevent cross-contact between different dishes.
How providing allergen information can benefit your business
Aside from the health benefits to your customers, providing allergen information can also benefit your business in other ways. For one, it can help you attract more customers who have food allergies or intolerances. These diners often have limited dining options, and may choose your restaurant over others if they see that you take allergen safety seriously.
Secondly, providing allergen information can protect your business from legal liability. If a customer suffers an allergic reaction due to a lack of allergen information on your menu card, you could be held liable for any damages or injuries. By providing accurate allergen information, you can reduce the risk of such incidents and protect your business from potential legal action.
Yes, include allergen information on your menu card
In conclusion, it’s essential to include allergen information on your menu card. Not only does it help prevent allergic reactions and protect your business from liability, but it can also attract more customers and show that you care about the health and safety of your diners. So make sure to provide clear and accurate allergen information on your menu card, and train your staff to handle any questions or concerns related to allergies or intolerances.
