Food safety
Prevent household allergen cross-contact
For a family member with a food allergy, check labels and separate ingredients, equipment, and cooking oil.
Last reviewed: 2026-09-12
Why it matters
Even an invisible trace of an allergen can move through a knife, board, hands, or shared frying oil into another meal.
Wrong action
Pick off visible allergen pieces or share knives, boards, and frying oil.
Correct action
Confirm each allergen, read labels, and use clean separate equipment for the safe meal.
What to do
- Confirm the allergen with the employer and read the ingredient label every time.
- Keep the safe ingredients apart and use a washed, dedicated knife, board, and utensils.
- Wash hands and counters, then prepare the allergen-free meal first or in a fully separate area.
If something happens
For breathing difficulty, swollen lips or tongue, or collapse, call 999 and follow the household emergency plan.
Sources and review
- Centre for Food Safety — Food Allergies
Last reviewed: 2026-09-12
This page provides general home-safety information and does not replace medical, legal, electrical, or other professional advice.