According to statistics, around 32 million people in the US have food allergies. Also, yearly, 200,000 people require emergency medical care due to a bad food allergy reaction. Hence, what happens when these individuals with serious food allergies go for an eat-out? These individuals rely largely on you, their waiter, to make sure that you are served with food that is safe. For that reason, you ought to know how to be a good waiter when serving clients with food allergies in your restaurant. Remember, they are entrusting their wellbeing and lives to your hands.
One elemental thing to do is knowing the common food allergies. We have more than 170 different various foods that people can generate allergic reactions to. Despite the figure the common cases of allergic reactions involve wheat, fish, milk, eggs, soy, wheat, tree nuts, peanuts, and crustacean shellfish. However, sesame allergies are becoming rampant. You can look up for allergens on the packaging of the products in the ingredients lists. It is crucial that you make it a habit to check what foods have potential allergens because even the most harmless-looking food could be fatal to such an individual if you’re not vigilant.
In addition to that, bear in mind that allergies are not the same. What comes to people’s mind when it comes to allergic reactions is symptoms such as redness, trouble breathing, as well as swelling face. But that is not essentially accurate as not every food allergic reaction looks that way. Most of the symptoms may go unnoticed. You can have an itchy sensation but not develop a rash. Their stomach may upset. They may get headaches, feel wobbly and unsteady, or faint. Some people’s reactions may be more severe than others. Some individuals only get an itch, while others could end in anaphylactic shock and die. Therefore, you ought to be extra vigilant and be versed with different cases.
You also should be acquainted with your company’s policy regarding allergies. If luck is on your side and happen to work in an established and healthy establishment, then you are safe. Probably they’ve a company allergy policy and make sure that every member of the organization knows it. Most eateries with at least ten employees have an allergy policy. They ensure their employees are well-versed with it and have it mounted in the building’s walls. You must discern and understand the policy and adhere to it precisely. Get more info.
As a waiter, you should recognize the components of every dish you serve. You should be able to tell what is in the dish from the flavors, grains, as well as ingredients. With knowledge of common allergens, it will be easy knowing what could be harmful to a person. Ensure you make special notice whenever you come upon a new dish with a common allergen. That is not enough – check how the dish is prepared and how the ingredients are used to prevent cross-contamination. Be sure to discover more here!
