Understanding the Matrix

When we say “Understanding the Matrix” we’re not talking about red or blue pills, Neo and Morpheus. We’re talking about the Allergen Matrix.

I think we’re all aware of what we’re talking about here, but are you aware of the information that needs to be included on the Matrix?

As a food business operator in the hospitality industry, it falls to you to ensure you provide accurate and cohesive allergen information for your customers. This information is vital in allowing customers with allergies to make an informed choice about what food or drink they consume.

Regardless of whether food items are prepared on site or bought in, it is essential that Matrix is completed to reflect the food items being sold at your venue. For instance, if you receive cakes from a supplier/baker you must obtain the ingredients list, so you can input the information into your own Allergen Matrix.

Think of the Allergen Matrix as a live document that needs changing when things change. If you change/update/introduce a menu or use a new ingredient you need to amend your Allergen Matrix to reflect these changes.

Are you a large business with Allergen Matrices online? Have you thought about what would happen if you were unable to access the online versions? It’s always worth while having a documented paper Allergen Matrix available on site, so you’re always covered!

Food business operators in the retail and catering sector are required to provide allergen information and follow labelling rules. This means that food business operators must:

  • ensure that your staff receive training on Allergens and understand how to handle and manage food allergens effectively in the food preparation process.

Since 2014, Food Businesses in the UK have been required to acknowledge the following 14 allergens.

  1. Celery
  2. Gluten
  3. Crustaceans
  4. Eggs
  5. Fish
  6. Lupin
  7. Milk
  8. Molluscs
  9. Mustard
  10. Nuts
  11. Peanuts
  12. Sesame seeds
  13. Sulphur dioxide
  14. Soya

Did you know that for 2. Gluten and 10. Nuts, you must specify the type of Gluten/Nuts used within the food item. For instance: Gluten (WHEAT, BARLEY, RYE), Nuts (ALMOND, HAZELNUNT, WALNUT).

If you need assistance on Understanding the Matrix, please get in touch!