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Information for Operators
It is important that restaurant operators are aware
of what causes allergic reactions, the symptoms of
an allergic reaction and the treatment. But the biggest
challenge for restaurant operators is how to provide
accurate ingredient information to customers with
food allergies.
CRFA offers useful background information and how-to's
in the booklet Food Allergies & the Foodservice
Industry. The online version is
free of charge. The printed version can be purchased by CRFA members for $6.50
per copy and by non-members for $10.50 per copy.
The booklet includes a pull-out chart (link to chart)
of the 10 most common food allergens.
CRFA also offers Food Allergies & the Foodservice
Industry video, which
comes with a copy of the Food Allergies & the
Foodservice Industry booklet.
Information for Consumers
There is no complete listing of restaurants that
are safe for people with allergies. Most national
and regional chain restaurants take food sensitivities
into account and have lists of ingredients available
in the restaurant or online. When visiting any restaurant
it is a good idea to call ahead and explain the nature
of the allergy to a manager. Find out if the restaurant
has menu items that do not contain the allergen or
can be prepared without the allergen. When you arrive
at the restaurant it is important to explain the
allergy to your server. Most restaurants are willing
to make small adjustments to a meal once they understand
the nature of the allergy. For more information see
CRFA's online booklet: Food Allergies & the Foodservice
Industry.
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