Kitchen Audit

MenuTrinfo’s certification audit for allergen-free areas or kitchens is a thorough process designed to ensure that specific spaces, such as a college campus dining hall or retail store, meet stringent allergen control standards. Here’s a breakdown of what the audit typically involves:

1. Pre-Audit Preparation

• Consultation: MenuTrinfo usually begins with a consultation to understand the specific needs of the client and the areas to be audited.
• Documentation Review: The team reviews existing protocols, ingredient lists, recipes, and any current allergen management practices in place.

2. On-Site Inspection

• Kitchen and Food Prep Area Inspection: The audit involves a detailed inspection of the kitchen or food preparation areas to identify any potential sources of allergen cross-contamination. This includes examining storage areas, food handling procedures, and cleaning practices.
• Ingredient Handling: The audit assesses how ingredients are stored and handled, ensuring that allergen-containing items are separated and clearly labeled.
• Food Preparation Practices: The audit looks at how food is prepared, ensuring that separate utensils, cookware, and preparation areas are used for allergen-free foods.

3. Staff Training and Awareness

• Staff Interviews: Auditors may conduct interviews with staff to assess their knowledge of allergen management practices and their ability to identify and handle allergens safely.
• Training Evaluation: The audit evaluates whether staff have received proper training on allergen control and if ongoing education is provided.

4. Testing and Verification

• Swab Testing: Swab tests may be conducted to detect any residual allergens on surfaces, equipment, or in the environment.
• Food Sample Testing: In some cases, food samples may be tested to ensure they are free from specific allergens.

This certification can be crucial for college campuses and retail spaces that aim to provide safe dining options for individuals with food allergies, showcasing their commitment to allergen safety and inclusion.

5. Audit Report and Certification

• Detailed Report: After the audit, MenuTrinfo provides a detailed report outlining any areas of non-compliance and recommendations for improvement.
• Certification: If the area meets the required standards, it will receive an allergen-free certification. This certification can be displayed to assure students, customers, and stakeholders that the space is safe for those with food allergies.

6. Follow-Up

• Ongoing Monitoring: MenuTrinfo may also offer follow-up audits or monitoring to ensure continued compliance with allergen-free standards.