New allergen laws: Robinsons sends out info packs to tenants

22-Dec-2014 - Last updated on 22-Dec-2014 at 10:37 GMT

Robinsons has sent out an allergen information pack to its tenants in the wake of the new EU rules on the display of allergen information, which came into force on 13 December.

The information pack, distributed to the brewer and pub operator’s 300-strong tenanted estate, contains guidelines, examples and posters to help licensees navigate the change in the law.

It follows on from a series of tenant tradeshows held by Robinsons on the subject in September. Under the new rules, pubs are now required to provide information on any of 14 different allergens, such as gluten, lactose and nuts, in every meal or drink.

For example, an ale-battered fish and chips with lemon dish would need to show that it contains fish, barley, wheat and eggs.

Teamwork

The information pack was put together by tenanted estate director David Robinson, retail marketing manager Sarah Rogers, and catering development manager Christian Whittleworth.

Whittleworth said that while some menus have included information regarding allergenic content for a number of years, the detail and presentation now has to be more precise so that the information to consumers is clearer.

He explained: “It has really changed the way we develop menus. Consistency through preparation and cooking is now paramount to ensure that we are complying with the regulation changes.

“The team have been coaching our tenants throughout this period to ensure that they understand everything that is required of them.”

Rogers added: “It’s just another example of the excellent support we give to our tenants. The new law affects everyone from your local pub all the way to a small sandwich shop and can be quite a time-consuming regulation to put into place.”

Outstanding support

Ged Dowd, tenant at the Horse Shoe Inn in Kingsley, Cheshire, said the support he’d received from Robinsons had been outstanding.

“From the announcement of the regulation to the training provided by the team, we wouldn’t be in the position we are without their guidance.

“While there has been a lot of preparation work for us, the changes will hopefully encourage more people with allergens to have the confidence in coming to the pub for a meal, knowing that their dietary requirements have been considered.”