Allergen Awareness Course

IIRSM Accredited

The Allergen Awareness Course is a comprehensive online training programme designed to help those in the food industry understand the risks associated with allergens and how to manage them safely. With allergic reactions on the rise, this course has become increasingly important for professionals in food handling, hospitality, catering, and retail sectors.

Covering the basics of food allergies, intolerances, and the 14 allergens controlled by legislation, this course helps learners recognise symptoms, prevent cross-contamination, and communicate allergen information clearly to customers. It also explores both internal and external procedures for monitoring and reviewing allergen control measures.

IIRSM Accredited

100% online training

Start when you like

Learn on any device (desktop, mobile, tablet)

Instant assessment and result

100% online training

Start when you like

Learn on any device (desktop, mobile, tablet)

Instant assessment and result

£

14

+ VAT

include
vat
include vat

Includes a 10% discount for 10+ courses

100% online course with flexible, self-paced access

Complies with UK allergen information legislation

Study anytime, on any device

Ideal for individual learners and full team training

Instant digital certificate upon completion

Includes key content on food additives, allergen symptoms, and legal responsibilities

Printed certificate posted the next working day

Helps reduce the risk of allergic reactions in food businesses

Approved by the Institute of Hospitality, IIRSM, Gatehouse Awards & CPD

Bulk discounts available for group training purchases

What You'll Learn

This course provides essential knowledge and practical guidance on managing allergens in food settings, including:

  • The difference between food allergies, food intolerances, and general allergies
  • The causes, symptoms, and severity of allergic reactions
  • The 14 allergens recognised by UK law, plus food additives
  • How allergens are labelled and communicated to consumers
  • Practical steps to prevent cross-contamination in food preparation areas
  • Best practices for providing allergen-safe options to customers
  • Internal and external monitoring of allergen control measures
  • The growing impact of allergies in modern society and food service

Whether you're serving, preparing, or packaging food, this course ensures your knowledge of allergen safety is compliant, up to date, and effective.

Training You Can Trust

This Allergen Awareness training is approved by leading industry bodies including the Institute of Hospitality, IIRSM, Gatehouse Awards, and CPD Certification Service. It has been developed by food safety experts and aligns with UK regulations, including the Food Information Regulations and Natasha's Law.

The course features interactive video content, case studies, and self-check questions to ensure understanding. It is suitable for both individuals looking to enhance their food safety knowledge and businesses seeking to train entire teams.

Why Take This Course?

Allergic reactions can be life-threatening, and food businesses have a legal and moral duty to protect their customers. Taking this course helps staff:

  • Understand and identify allergens in food products
  • Recognise the symptoms of allergic reactions and intolerances
  • Avoid cross-contact through safe preparation and handling practices
  • Accurately label and communicate allergen information to consumers
  • Meet legal obligations and prepare for local authority inspections
  • Create a safer, more inclusive dining or shopping experience
  • Prevent negative publicity, legal action, or reputational damage due to allergen incidents

With food allergies becoming more prevalent, this training helps businesses protect both their customers and their brand.

Course Content

The Allergen Awareness course consists of eight informative modules:

1. Food Intolerance and Allergens: the Basics – Introduction to key terms and distinctions

2. Food Intolerances – Causes and Symptoms – Understanding non-allergic food reactions

3. Allergies – Causes and Symptoms – Exploring immune system responses and severe reactions

4. Allergen Facts – In-depth look at the 14 named allergens and common sources

5. Food Allergens and the Law – Overview of legal obligations, including labelling and consumer rights

6. Food Allergens – Practical Steps – How to avoid cross-contamination and implement safe procedures

7. Allergen Information for Consumers – Best practices for communicating allergen content clearly

8. Internal and External Monitoring and Review – Implementing and auditing allergen safety systems

This content helps learners develop a full picture of effective allergen management, from legislation to kitchen procedures.

Assessment

At the end of the course, learners complete a multiple-choice assessment to test their understanding. A score of 75% or higher is required to pass. Learners may retake the assessment at no extra cost if needed.

Once successfully completed, learners receive an instant digital certificate and a professionally printed version sent the next working day. The certificate can be used as proof of allergen awareness training for employers, EHOs, or industry compliance.

Suitable For

This course is ideal for:

Chefs, cooks, and food preparation staff

Waiters, baristas, and front-of-house employees

Food delivery, packaging, and distribution workers

Managers and supervisors in food service environments

Staff in catering, retail, education, healthcare, and hospitality sectors

It is also suitable for business owners who need to train staff in allergen awareness and food safety responsibilities.

Frequently Asked Questions About Food Hygiene Training

Do I need allergen training by law?

While not always mandatory, businesses must ensure their staff are trained to handle allergen information correctly. This course helps meet that requirement.

Is this course recognised by local authorities?

Yes. It is approved by CPD, Gatehouse Awards, IIRSM, and the Institute of Hospitality and is widely accepted across the UK.

Can I complete the course online?

Yes. The course is delivered fully online and can be completed on your phone, tablet, or computer.

How long does the course take?

The course takes approximately 100 minutes to complete, but learners can study at their own pace.

Is there an exam?

Yes. A multiple-choice assessment is required to complete the course. Free retakes are available if needed.

Do I get a certificate?

Yes. You’ll receive a digital certificate instantly and a printed version by post.

Can this training be used for CPD?

Yes. The course is CPD certified and counts toward continuing professional development.

Who is responsible for allergen safety in a food business?

Everyone in the business has a role to play, from food handlers to supervisors and managers.