Allergen Handling Checklist
Daily allergen handling checklist: matrix posted, separate prep, order verification, and cross-contact prevention for kitchen and expo.
- Estimated time
- 10 min
- Frequency
- daily
- Business type
- restaurant
- Category
- food safety
- Role
- kitchen manager
- Role
- line cook
- Role
- prep cook
- Role
- expeditor
Purpose
Prevent allergen cross-contact and document controls for every service period.
Run this allergen checklist at shift start and verify every modified order at the pass. Post your allergen matrix where kitchen and expo staff can reference it during service.
Signage & Matrix
Confirm allergen information is current and visible.
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Allergen matrix posted at kitchen and expo
Pass / Fail
-
Menu allergen information matches current recipes
Pass / Fail
-
Staff briefed on allergen requests at shift start
Prep Controls
Prevent cross-contact during preparation.
-
Dedicated allergen prep tools available
-
Separate prep area clean and pass
Pass / Fail
-
Hands washed and gloves changed between tasks
Order Verification
Verify allergen orders before they leave the kitchen.
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Allergen noted on POS ticket or chit
-
Expeditor verified allergen order at pass
-
Order bag or container labeled if required
Pass / Fail
-
Allergen incident or near-miss notes (optional)
Note
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is an allergen handling SOP?
- An allergen handling SOP documents how your kitchen prevents cross-contact: separate tools, prep areas, ticket notation, and final verification before food leaves the pass.
- Which allergens must restaurants disclose?
- U.S. FDA recognizes nine major allergens including milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, soybeans, and sesame. Your matrix should list menu items against these allergens.
- Who verifies allergen orders?
- The expeditor or kitchen manager verifies allergen-modified tickets before food goes to the guest or delivery driver. Two sets of eyes beats one.
- How often should the allergen matrix be updated?
- Update immediately after any menu, ingredient, or supplier change. Review the matrix at every pre-shift briefing.
- Does this checklist work for delivery-only kitchens?
- Yes. Add label verification for off-premise orders so drivers receive allergen-flagged bags. Customize the order verification section in SOPChef for your platforms.