Food Allergy Awareness Week
May 12 2026 2:37PM
Food Allergy Awareness Week is an important yearly campaign that focuses on increasing understanding of food allergies a serious public health concern affecting millions of people around the world. Held each May, the week aims to highlight the risks associated with food allergies while encouraging greater safety, awareness, and inclusion for those who live with them. Whether you are directly impacted, support someone who is, or work in healthcare; this week offers a valuable opportunity to learn, raise awareness, and show support for the community.
What and when is Food Allergy Awareness Week?
Food Allergy Awareness Week is led by nonprofit organisations and health advocates to improve knowledge about food allergies. These occur when the immune system reacts negatively to certain foods, sometimes with severe consequences. Throughout the week, educational campaigns and resources help inform the public about recognising, preventing, and managing food allergies in everyday situations. This awareness week takes place annually in May. In 2026, it runs from 12th-19th May.
How to Get Involved
- Learn and Share Information: Explore trusted resources and help spread awareness about food allergies. How to act if you believe someone is having a reaction to a food allergy.
- Take Part in Events: Attend or organise community activities focused on education and support.
- Support Policy Improvements: Advocate for clearer food labelling and safer practices in schools, restaurants, and public spaces.
- Contribute to Research: Donate or fundraise to support ongoing research into treatments and prevention.
- Raise Awareness Online: Share personal experiences or helpful information on social media to educate others.
Natasha Ednan-Laperouse’s story
15-year-old Natasha, from Fulham, West London sadly died from anaphylaxis in 2016. She ate a baguette bought from a Pret a Manger shop before a flight at Heathrow Airport.
She began to feel ill during her flight and suffered a cardiac arrest. Despite her father administering two EpiPen injections, she died later the same day.
The sandwich did not have any allergen advice on its wrapper, as this at the time was not required by law as it was made on the premises.
Following her tragic death, Natasha’s successfully campaigned to introduce Natasha's Law in October 2021, which requires full ingredient and allergen labelling on all food made on premises and pre-packed for direct sale.
How can we help at Arion?
Alongside raising awareness, here at Arion, we offer regular First Aid training courses that include guidance on responding to medical emergencies, such as anaphylaxis.