At Thomas Ridley we believe that good food should be for everyone and that's why this year's Allergy Awareness week we're focusing on raising awareness of Food allergies.
With an estimated 2 million people in the UK living with a diagnosed food allergy - and many more affected by food intolerances - this week is a reminder that allergens are not just dietary preferences, allergic reactions can be serious.
Allergy Awareness Week is about education, empathy and action. It shines a spotlight on what it really means to live with food allergies and how the food industry can play a proactive role in keeping people safe. For us, it reinforces our responsibility to support caterers, chefs and businesses with the tools and transparency they need.
Allergy Awareness in the Food Service Industry
Whether it's a school kitchen, a care home, a cafe or a high-end restaurant, food businesses must be confident in their allergen control practises. Building strong relationships with customers who have allergies is crucial - it not only encourages repeat business but also boosts word-of-mouth recommendations.
People with food allergies are often part of communities that actively share trusted food spots and recommendations. They'll more than likely choose establishments where they feel confident their dietary needs will be taken seriously.
Staff training plays a ley role in this. When team members can confidently and accuratley answer questions about ingredients it immediately reassures customers and helps them feel safe in their decision to dine with you.
How we are supporting you
We stock a wide range of products that are gluten-free, dairy-free, nut-free and sutable for a variety of dietary needs - without compromising on taste or quality. From plant-based sauces to gluten-free baked goods, we aim to make it easier for food businesses to be inclusive.
At Thomas Ridley, we're comitted to:
- Clear allergen information on all our products.
- Offering free-from and allergen-safe alternatives across multiple categories.
- Working closeley with brands that take allergen control as seriously as we do.
Need help busineding an allergy-friendly menu? Take a look below for some inspiration.
