ONLINE training provider Train4Academy has launched a food preparation module covering new European Union allergen regulations.
Targeted at hospitality and foodservice employees, the Train4Food Food Hygiene module outlines employees’ responsibilities under the new EU Food Information for Consumer Regulations (EU FIC), which come into force on December 13 this year.
The new regulations require operators to accurately track and record menu items which contain any of 14 common allergens such as nuts, shellfish and eggs, and provide customers with this information.
Operators will also be obliged to train all staff, including both kitchen and front-of-house, to understand the hazards posed by allergens and the possible consequences to customers with allergies.
Janet Bridgewater, director of Train4Academy, said there is an “inevitability” that there will be a focus on preparations for the December deadline but reminded operators that “this is an ongoing obligation for all food businesses”.
“Whether or not all staff are fully up to speed by day one, allergen awareness needs to be permanently embedded into the business in terms of training and good practice in order to comply with the law,” said Bridgewater.
