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Perform Allergen Checks using eAuditor

Allergen Checks refer to the process of identifying and verifying the presence of allergens in food products or environments to prevent cross-contamination and ensure food safety for individuals with allergies. This includes reviewing ingredient labels, verifying cleaning procedures, and ensuring proper food handling practices in kitchens or food establishments.

eAuditor is a powerful tool for performing Allergen Checks in food establishments, ensuring that allergens are correctly managed, labeled, and prevented from causing contamination. Below is a step-by-step guide to conducting allergen checks using eAuditor.

Steps to Perform Allergen Checks Using eAuditor

1. Create an Allergen Checks Checklist

Develop a customized Allergen Checks checklist in eAuditor that is aligned with the specific food safety standards of your facility. Customize the checklist to ensure thorough allergen management procedures are followed.

Key Sections to Include in the Checklist:

1. General Information

   • Inspection Date & Time
   • Inspector Name
   • Facility Name & Location
   • Specific Areas to Inspect (e.g., kitchen, storage, labeling)

2. Ingredient Review

   • Clearly label all ingredients in food preparation  with potential allergens (e.g., peanuts, gluten, soy, dairy).
   • Store Ingredients with allergens separately from non-allergen ingredients.
   • Are ingredient lists for pre-packaged products accurate and up-to-date?

3. Cross-Contamination Prevention

   • Sanitize kitchen tools (e.g., knives, cutting boards) between uses to avoid allergen cross-contact.
   • Use separate utensils and equipment for allergen-containing foods.
   • Store all allergenic ingredients in airtight containers to prevent accidental exposure?

4. Staff Training & Awareness

   • Train staff on allergen awareness and the importance of preventing cross-contamination.
   • Are staff members aware of food allergen protocols and emergency procedures in case of allergic reactions?

5. Labeling & Packaging

   • Are all products clearly labeled with allergen warnings, including any potential cross-contamination risks?
   • Are allergen ingredients clearly highlighted on product packaging, both for prepared and pre-packaged foods?

6. Cleaning & Sanitization

   • Are allergen-specific cleaning procedures in place to prevent cross-contamination?
   • Are surfaces and equipment sanitized thoroughly after handling allergen-containing foods?
   • Is there a designated cleaning schedule for allergen-sensitive areas?

7. Verification of Procedures

   • Are procedures being followed correctly for managing allergens, as outlined in food safety standards?
   • Are allergen checks documented regularly as part of daily food safety practices?

2. Conduct the Allergen Check & Capture Evidence

Use eAuditor’s mobile app or desktop version to conduct the inspection on-site:

• Capture Photos: Take photos of allergen labeling, allergen storage areas, and equipment cleanliness to verify compliance.
• Record Notes: Add detailed notes for each item in the checklist, such as “Separate storage for gluten-free products” or “Cross-contamination prevention measures in place.”
• Voice Notes: Use voice notes if more detailed explanations are needed for specific issues or observations.

3. Assign Corrective Actions & Track Progress

If issues or non-compliance are found, you can immediately assign corrective actions:

• Assign Tasks: Tag relevant team members or departments responsible for addressing identified allergen-related issues.
• Set Priorities: Mark corrective actions as high, medium, or low based on their severity (e.g., high priority for allergen labeling mistakes, and low priority for non-critical cross-contamination risks).
• Set Deadlines: Define deadlines to ensure all actions are addressed promptly.
• Track Progress: Use eAuditor’s task management features to monitor the completion of corrective actions.

4. Generate Reports & Share with Teams

Once the allergen check is complete, eAuditor generates a detailed report:

• Inspection Results: An overview of allergen management practices and compliance status.
• Photos & Notes: Visual evidence and supporting documentation for allergen-related inspections.
• Corrective Actions: A list of corrective actions to address non-compliance or issues found during the inspection.

Export & Share Reports

• Export the inspection report in PDF, Word, or CSV format for easy sharing.
• Automatically send reports to management, food safety officers, or regulatory bodies.
• Schedule follow-up inspections to ensure continued compliance with allergen management procedures.

5. Continuous Improvement & Ongoing Monitoring

To ensure allergen safety is consistently maintained:

• Schedule Recurring Inspections: Set up regular allergen checks in eAuditor to monitor compliance and reinforce safe practices.
• Review Past Inspections: Use eAuditor’s historical data to identify recurring allergen-related issues and areas for improvement.
• Provide Ongoing Training: Regularly update staff on allergen safety practices and protocols.

Final Thoughts

Using eAuditor for Allergen Checks ensures that food establishments:

• Properly manage and label allergens to avoid contamination.
• Follow strict procedures for allergen storage, handling, and cleaning.
• Maintain thorough documentation and ensure staff awareness to protect individuals with food allergies.

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