NHS staff including caterers, chefs, dietetics, nursing, estates and facilities are being urged to review their menus, food safety systems and allergen policies as several incidents relating to allergens in hospital food, including three that resulted in anaphylactic reaction, are reported.
An Estates and Facilities Alert has been issued, which states that consistent themes are lack of information and/or communication regarding food allergens present in the food, as well as details of the patient's known food allergy.
The main reasons for these incidents are given as an incorrect meal being delivered to the patient, an inappropriate menu choice (by the patient or a member of staff), out-dated allergen information, lack of communication of a patient's allergy to kitchen staff, conflicting information regarding a patient's allergy and incorrect advice from kitchen staff.
The alert wants action towards default labelling, the availability of clear information that is in line with current legislation, adequate and appropriate staff training, and a commitment to investigate and learn from any incidents.
Any review of policy on allergens should also include guidance on controlling risks where food is offered as part of charity fundraising events - for example, cake sales.
In October next year Natasha's Law will come into force. This law will require food businesses to include full ingredients labelling on pre-packed foods for direct sale, and will affect hospital caterers preparing sandwiches, baguettes, paninis, wraps and salads in their own kitchens for sale pre-packaged in their retail outlets.
Presently food prepared on the premises in which it is sold is not required to display allergen information on the label. The strengthening of the legislation follows the tragic death of teenager, Natasha Ednan-Laperouse, who suffered an allergic reaction to a baguette from Pret a Manger in 2016.
Actions required by this Estates and Facilities Alert should be complete by August 2020.
