Eating out with allergies

If you have a food allergy or intolerance, make sure you have all the information you need to make safe food choices

Couple ordering food in cafe with a serving assistant

If you have a food allergy, or are with someone who does, here are a few things to think about before ordering food.

Before you go: 

Check the menu online and call ahead to ask about the business’s allergy policy. Do they offer suitable options, or can they prepare something for you? (They must provide allergen info, but don’t have to make a separate meal.)

  • be very clear about your allergy/intolerance and give examples of the foods that make you ill 
  • if you don’t feel the person you’re speaking to understands your needs, ask for the manager or someone else who can help
  • ask how the food is handled and cooked, and whether there’s a chance of cross-contact from cooking equipment or ingredients 
  • check that the allergen information is accurate - has there been a last-minute recipe change or ingredient substitution? 
  • be extra careful if the restaurant serves complex dishes, as allergens could be less obvious or hidden

On arrival:

Speak to your server or the manager. 

  • be clear about your food allergy/intolerance and confirm your previous conversation with the staff 
  • check the meal choices are suitable for you or that they can make changes to suit your dietary needs
  • remind them to be careful of cross-contact or added allergens from glazes, sauces or cooking oils, and to handle your meal with care

Important: Do not eat at the restaurant if you have any doubt about staff understanding your dietary needs.  

Ordering a takeaway over the phone or online

Takeaway businesses must give you allergy information when you order and when your food is delivered.

Follow the same steps as if you’re eating at a restaurant, café or food outlet, but also:  

  • check that the allergen information is available on the menu, online or over the telephone
  • if you're ordering for a group, ask the restaurant to label your meal so you know which one is safe for you

 

Woman's hand holding chopsticks and noodles

Travelling

Ordering food in another country can be trickier due to different languages, labels, and unfamiliar dishes, but the same safety steps still apply.

Allergy Action have some translations of useful phrases you can download to help you ask questions when eating out abroad.

Find translations of words and phrases at Allergy Action
Two men sitting at a table in a restaurant looking at menus. One is speaking to the waiter.

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