IDDBA releases allergen awareness training video

The International Dairy-Deli-Bakery Association (IDDBA), Madison, Wis., said it released a free online and mobile training video that helps educate managers and service associates in fresh perishable departments about food allergens and offers tips on how to engage consumers on the subject.

Titled "Safe Food Matters: Allergen Awareness," the five-minute training video addresses such topics as:

• What ingredients can trigger a food allergy reaction.
• The difference between a food intolerance and a food allergy.
• How to assist shoppers who have food allergies in their purchases.
• Ways to decrease the risk of cross-contact when preparing and selling food.

The video is the latest training resource developed in support of IDDBA’s "Safe Food Matters! Focus on Allergens" campaign, which builds awareness on the importance of food allergen education and best practices in deli, bakery, dairy and foodservice departments, IDDBA said. The training video is accessible at training.iddba.org. 

“The number of shoppers affected by food allergies is growing, and these individuals are looking more and more toward food retailers to assist them in making the right food purchasing decisions,” said Mary Kay O’Connor, vice president of education, IDDBA. “Our latest training video can help department managers and service associates gain the knowledge needed to communicate with and assist customers with more confidence.”

As part of the campaign, IDDBA said it also created an online industry resource page that features training materials, handouts, white papers, food safety certification reimbursement information and other services. Additionally, food-allergen-themed presentations are slated for Dairy-Deli-Bake Seminar and Expo, which will take place June 5-7 in Houston.