SOFHT allergens conference speakers revealed

Product recalls and withdrawals due to allergen mislabelling are on the increase, according to the Society of Hygiene and Technology (SOFHT).

It said throughout industry, there are failures in labelling allergens correctly, resulting in product recalls and withdrawals.

SOFHT will gather experts at its allergens conference in February next year to talk about the issues.

The day-long event, aimed at food manufacturing, foodservice and retail operators, will review how allergens can be identified and labelled correctly and how industry can improve compliance to give consumers confidence in foods they eat.

SOFHT is an independent consortium of industry specialists to keep members advised of hygiene and technology issues providing technical support, training and topical information.

Guest speakers include Dr Lisa Ackerley, who will share findings on how businesses have coped with new allergen legislation and give her tips on compliance and good practice.

Former Public Analyst Michael Walker will examine how food allergens are tested while Caroline Clark, principal trading standard officer at Salford City Council will look at enforcement relating to allergen labelling.

Hazel Gowland, from Allergy Action will update on food allergy and insight into current and future initiatives to prevent risk.

Peter Littleton from Klenzan will look at validated cleaning regimes in allergen management and Julia Pepler, an experienced allergen management practitioner, will advise on how to put together an allergen risk management programme.

The SOFHT Allergens Conference is on 10 February 2016 at Holiday Inn, Stratford upon Avon, UK. Neogen will be exhibiting at the event. 

For information on booking a place email admin@sofht.co.uk or call +44 1827 875 800. It costs £174 for members and £234 for non-members.