3.2 Be Allergy Aware & Save a Life Factsheet

# 3.2 Be Allergy Aware & Save a Life Factsheet

**Little Coffee Bean Co**
**Version:** V2
**Date:** October 2025
**SOP Number:** 3.2

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## Purpose

To educate staff on the serious nature of food allergies and provide practical guidance on how to prevent allergic reactions in customers.

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## Why Allergen Management Matters

Food allergies can cause severe, life-threatening reactions. Even small amounts of an allergen can trigger anaphylaxis in some individuals. Staff awareness and careful allergen management can save lives.

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## The 14 Major Allergens

All Little Coffee Bean Co staff must be familiar with these allergens:

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## Best Practice for Allergen Safety

### Before Service

– Check all ingredients for allergen declarations
– Ensure allergen information is visible and accessible
– Review menu items and their allergen content
– Prepare allergen-free items separately

### During Service

– **Always ask customers:** “Do you have any allergies or intolerances?”
– Listen carefully to customer responses
– Inform customers of potential cross-contamination risks
– Prepare food with care, following segregation procedures
– Never assume an allergen is not present

### After Service

– Clean all surfaces, utensils, and equipment thoroughly
– Dispose of allergen-containing waste safely
– Update records if allergen-related issues occur

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## Recognising an Allergic Reaction

**Mild symptoms:**
– Itching or tingling in the mouth
– Mild swelling of lips, mouth, or throat
– Skin rash or hives

**Severe symptoms (Anaphylaxis):**
– Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
– Swelling of face, lips, or throat
– Dizziness or confusion
– Collapse or loss of consciousness

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## In Case of a Suspected Allergic Reaction

1. **Call 999 immediately**
2. If the customer has an EpiPen, help them use it if they request assistance
3. Keep the customer calm and lying down (unless vomiting)
4. Do not move the customer unnecessarily
5. Stay with the customer until emergency services arrive
6. Report the incident to management immediately
7. Complete an incident report form

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## Key Messages

✓ **Take all allergy concerns seriously**
✓ **Ask every customer about allergies**
✓ **Prevent cross-contamination**
✓ **Communicate clearly about allergen risks**
✓ **Know how to respond to emergencies**

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## References

– UK Food Standards Agency (FSA)
– Anaphylaxis Campaign
– NHS Allergy Information