It was noted that the majority of suppliers are not specific when it comes to the full breakdown of ingredients in products, they simply go with the ‘everything suits all’ label, meaning staff members then have to chase them for further information.
Head chefs also noted that new tools to help with allergen legislation has actually sped up the process of creating bespoke menus.
Andy Wood, head chef at Northampton Saints RFC, said: "The system (recipe management system) actually tells us what allergens are in each dish that we create. This means we can quickly eliminate and replace any ingredients that are not suitable. This time-saving system simplifies the previous complicated allergy sheets which were given to all staff members to become familiar with.”
Kudos has started to roll out a handbook across its venues to cater for all allergy sufferers by presenting their meal options with clear descriptions.
The Brighton Centre have taken it one step further and have introduced a complete separate dietary station with its own chef and ‘handbook’ on hand for ease of access.
All staff members now undertake regular allergens training given by both general managers and head chefs across all Kudos venues. All staff receive a ‘handbook’, which is updated on a regular basis with new menus and any other new allergen information.
Jon Pryce said: “We use our seasonal conferences to discuss important topics and ensure everyone is working to the same standards.
“It’s also a time to reflect on any obstacles we have faced and how we can overcome them. The introduction of the ‘handbook’ has enabled us to save time, minimize food wastage and has been a simple and successful way of keeping our staff informed about all the latest allergen information.”
Kudos have found that by introducing the ‘handbook’ there has been a lot of positive feedback from not only the retail customers but also from clients that have held corporate and private events with Kudos.
Kudos is part of the Crown Partnership and runs venues and retail outlets, offering hospitality and creative catering to a range of clients and offices every day.