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In the world of food preparation and service, understanding and managing food allergens is critical to ensure the safety and well-being of consumers. With allergies affecting millions worldwide, knowledge of common food allergens is not just a regulatory requirement—it’s a cornerstone of food hygiene.
This article will tell you the 14 named allergens identified by food safety authorities, highlighting their sources, and the allergy symptoms to watch out for.
Wheat, rye, barley, oats, and spelt can possess gluten. These grains are often used in the creation of foods like bread, pasta, cakes, etc.
Allergy symptoms include:
Shrimp, crab, lobster, and crayfish contain allergenic proteins, posing risks in seafood dishes and sauces.
Allergy symptoms include:
Found in baked goods, sauces, and processed foods, eggs are a common allergen that requires careful management in kitchens.
Allergy symptoms include:
Present in obvious forms like fillets and less obvious ones like fish sauces, it’s crucial to note for those with fish allergies.
Allergy symptoms include:
Peanut allergies can be severe. Peanuts find their way into various cuisines, sauces, and desserts.
Allergy symptoms include:
Used in a multitude of products like tofu, soy sauce, and processed foods, soy is a prevalent allergen.
Allergy symptoms include:
Including lactose, milk is used in a vast range of products from baked goods to sauces and processed foods.
Allergy symptoms include:
Tree nuts such as almonds, hazelnuts, walnuts, cashews, and pistachios can cause allergic reactions. They’re used in desserts, chocolates, and more.
Allergy symptoms include:
Found in stocks, soups, and salads, celery can be an allergen that’s sometimes overlooked.
Allergy symptoms include:
Used in various forms (seeds, powder, leaves), mustard can be a hidden allergen in sauces and condiments.
Allergy symptoms include:
Often found in bread, hummus, and Asian cuisines, sesame seeds pose allergy risks.
Allergy symptoms include:
Used as preservatives in dried fruits, wines, and some processed foods, these can provoke asthma symptoms in sensitive individuals.
Allergy symptoms include:
Common in European breads and pastries, lupin is a legume that can cause allergic reactions.
Allergy symptoms include:
Snails, mussels, oysters, and squids contain allergens, relevant in seafood dishes and supplements.
Allergy symptoms include:
Understanding these allergens is crucial for anyone involved in food preparation, serving, and retail because an allergic reaction can result in fatality.
Allergy awareness courses play a vital role in educating about safe handling practices, cross-contamination prevention, and customer communication regarding allergens present in food.
If you would be interested in up-skilling on allergy awareness via an accredited 2-hour course, and gaining a formal certificate, then check out Essential Food Hygiene’s allergy awareness course here. It costs just £10 per person.
