For most people, a visit to a cafe is simple. You look in the display case, choose what looks good, and order.

For those living with allergies, the reality is often different. Before one can even consider what they fancy, they need an answer to a much more important question: What can I eat?

WHEN A SIMPLE QUESTION BECOMES DIFFICULT

I was reminded of this again during a fika (coffee break) when we were on a trip to Gotland last week. When I asked which pastries were egg-free, I was met with that familiar uncertainty behind the counter. A quick glance at colleagues, a trip to the kitchen, and an attempt to find the right information. You don't want to be a bother, but at the same time, you need to be able to trust the answer.

Unfortunately, it's not always that simple. When allergen information is lacking, something as ordinary as a fika suddenly becomes both uncertain and uncomfortable.

This is also why the results from the Swedish Food Agency's inspection of restaurants and cafes across the country are so concerning. When the agency investigated how businesses provide information about allergens in 2023, it turned out that approximately one in four businesses provided incorrect information.

For the approximately 1.5 million Swedes living with an allergy or hypersensitivity, it is more than a service issue. Incorrect information can lead to everything from stomach upset and skin reactions to severe allergic reactions.

WHAT RESPONSIBILITIES DO RESTAURANTS & CAFES HAVE?

Restaurants and cafes are obliged to provide information about the 14 allergens covered by EU food legislation. The information can be provided orally or in writing, but it must be accurate and easily accessible.

In the Swedish Food Agency's inspection, it made little difference whether the information was given verbally or in writing – errors occurred in both cases.

The allergens most often incorrectly stated were celery and mustard, followed by egg, soy, milk, and gluten. At the same time, errors regarding peanuts and nuts were rare, which may indicate that awareness of these allergies is generally higher.

ALLERGY ISSUE RECEIVES INCREASED FOCUS

While many businesses still lack adequate allergen information, the field of allergies has received increased national attention.

In 2026, the government decided on a national allergy strategy for the period 2026–2030. The purpose is to improve the quality of life for people living with allergies and to create a more allergy-friendly society. As part of the strategy, the Swedish Food Agency has been tasked with strengthening efforts to ensure safe food for people with food allergies and celiac disease.

The assignment includes, among other things, information initiatives for food businesses, collaboration with schools and preschools, and an investigation into a national system for reporting allergy incidents.  

This is an important step. For those living with food allergies, safety is not just about what is on the plate – but also about being able to trust the information provided.

WHAT CAN YOU DO AS A CONSUMER?

If a restaurant, cafe, or other large-scale catering establishment does not provide correct information about allergens, you can report it to the municipality where the business is located.

The municipal food inspectors are responsible for ensuring that businesses comply with the legislation. Although it can sometimes feel cumbersome to make a report, every report helps to highlight deficiencies and improve safety for everyone living with allergies.

A SAFETY ISSUE?

Being able to trust the information about the food you eat should be a given. For those living with allergies, it is not just a service issue – it is a safety issue.

Hopefully, increased knowledge, better routines, and the new national allergy strategy can help make something as simple as a fika a little safer for everyone.

/Adam
Dietitian and founder of Fibr

Sources:  
Coordinated control project – information on allergenic ingredients in large-scale catering
Assignment to the Swedish Food Agency to implement the government's allergy strategy 2026-2030