Check allergy policy, council warns

Food businesses in the Welshpool area must have a working allergy policy in place, the county council has warned.

The warning follows the recent prosecution of a north Yorkshire trader, who was jailed for six years for the manslaughter of a customer who had an allergic reaction to a dish purchased at their premises.

Cllr John Powell, Cabinet Member for Trading Standards, said: “The consequences of not operating a thorough allergy policy in your food business can have life-changing ramifications.

“No matter what type of food business you run, whether you are a food manufacturer or operate a takeaway food outlet, having a clear and robust allergy policy is vital. Businesses that fail to comply with the Food Safety Act 1990 and the Food Information Regulations 2014 may face prosecution which can result in a large fine or even a prison sentence.

“I would urge any food business to contact our Trading Standards Service if they need help to understand what they need to do.”

To help Powys businesses comply with the regulations, the service is offering all Powys food businesses the opportunity to attend an allergy training day.

For more information and to reserve a place on the training, contact the Trading Standards Service on 0845 6027030 or email trading.standards@powys.gov.uk.