Become Familiar with School Policies

The school should have an allergy management policy that includes the emergency response protocol. All catering staff should be aware of these.

Clear Labelling

Schools are now required to label all prepackaged foods with the 14 allergens where these have been used as ingredients. More information can be found on the  Food Standards Scotland website.

Catering staff also need to know if any of the 14 allergens have been used in non-prepacked foods i.e. those made on the premises or sold loose. Allergens used as ingredients in meals should also be clearly labelled on menus for pupils to read prior to purchasing.

A useful resource that all catering staff should read is  Food allergy regulations for business | Food Standards Scotland

Posters of the 14 most common allergens should be displayed in the kitchen and around the canteen to raise awareness to staff and students.

 Food Standards Scotland 14 major allergens poster

Natasha's Law

Following the tragic death of Natasha Ednan-Laperouse, and calls from consumers to have more information about what is in wrapped food, all food businesses, including schools are now required to label all pre-packaged foods with its name and a list of ingredients, including allergen information. Natasha’s Law came into force on 1st October 2021. For more information and updates on Natasha’s Law, visit  Food Standards Scotland and  DEFRA.

Displaying the allergens present in meals for pupils before they get in the queue allows them to choose their option early and avoid delays at the till. This could be on large display boards, screens or menus at tables.