IGD launches allergen risk assessment template
03 September 2025New guidance developed in consultation with industry leaders aims to transform allergen process management.
IGD today announces the launch of its new allergen risk assessment template and accompanying guidance. This significant initiative is set to bring greater consistency in allergen procedures and support improved food safety for allergy sufferers nationwide.
With food allergies and intolerances rising across all UK demographics, the need for a consistent and effective approach to allergen management has never been greater. The new template will help to eliminate confusion caused by inconsistent labelling and ultimately support a safer shopping experience for consumers.
The new allergen risk assessment template is the result of extensive collaboration through IGD’s Technical Leaders Forum and Network which bring together senior stakeholders throughout the food and consumer goods industry, to discuss common technical issues and strategic opportunities.
IGD was able to facilitate open dialogue in its role as an impartial industry convenor, to coordinate the development of this industry-wide solution.
“The launch of this allergen risk assessment template demonstrates how industry collaboration can deliver positive change. We understand that adapting to new procedures will involve some policy updates and staff retraining, but we see the template as a positive development, designed to streamline risk assessment, empowering teams to deliver safer food for all.”
— Kate Reynolds, Senior Manager, Resilience Programme at IGD
"Together with the IGD, we are bringing retailers and food manufacturers together to create a consumer first approach to allergen management through a cross-industry framework."
— Ross Dennison, Technical Director, Bakkavor and Technical Leaders Forum Co-chair
“We are pleased that the food industry is coming together to improve allergen management. We welcome the launch of the new guidance and risk assessment template and hope this will give greater reassurance to the millions of people living with food allergies in the UK and their families."
— Nadim Ednan-Laperouse OBE, founder of The Natasha Allergy Research Foundation
To explore the new approach, IGD will be hosting a free webinar on 9 September, 14:30–15:30. The event will feature Ross Dennison, Technical Director at Bakkavor, as project sponsor, alongside project leads who will share insights from the template’s development. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn how the tool supports risk management, participate in a live Q&A and hear what’s next for the project group.
Learn more on the allergen risk assessment template and register for the free webinar.
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Notes to Editors:
1. All content is owned by IGD. If you use or refer to any content in this press release, please credit IGD.
2. Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/igd/
3. IGD brings together stakeholders from across the food system, fostering action across on critical challenges across a broad cross section of forums. Through evidence-based insights, credible research, and thought leadership, IGD guides businesses to make informed decisions that not only benefit their operations but also contribute to the collective good of society. As a charity with a long-standing commitment to the food and grocery industry, IGD does not advocate for any single commercial interest but works towards fostering alignment on shared goals that can have a positive, lasting impact on both the industry and the communities it serves. Its neutrality and impartiality are key to its role in facilitating collaboration. By staying connected to the changing dynamics of the world, IGD ensures that the food system remains robust and sustainable, creating tangible benefits for businesses, consumers and society.