Allergy Awareness is a Game-Changer for Restaurants

This report shares the dining experiences of Canadians with food allergy and reveals untapped opportunities for restaurants to grow a loyal client base and gain market share. © Courtesy of Food Allergy Canada

Allergy Awareness is a Game-Changer for Restaurants

There’s something special about going out to eat, gathering around a table, exploring new flavours, and sharing a meal with loved ones. But for over three million Canadians, dining out isn’t just about enjoying a meal— it’s about feeling safe.

Navigating safe food options is an everyday reality for Canadians with food allergy. New research from Food Allergy Canada indicates that allergen management practices hold significant influence on where Canadians choose to dine. In fact, a whopping 80 per cent of people with food allergies say these policies drive their decisions, and even 44 per cent of those without allergies report that they’re influenced by how restaurants handle food allergy when dining out with others.

This research highlights how Canadian diners' views on eating out have changed over time, creating a massive, untapped opportunity for restaurants to capitalize on the growing importance of allergy awareness.

“Over three million Canadians are affected by food allergies, with an estimated $6.5 billion spent annually by these households on dining out,” said Jennifer Gerdts, Executive Director of Food Allergy Canada. “Allergyaware establishments have a huge opportunity to grow their share of this underserved market.”

Prioritizing allergy awareness for this underserved market is a small shift with a big impact.

The Recipe for Success report includes insights from research where 1,500 Canadians with and without food allergy were surveyed. The report revealed that food-allergic consumers are less price-sensitive and more loyal than diners without food allergy.

Eighty-six per cent of diners surveyed shared that their food allergy drives their restaurant loyalty, even when dining with non-allergic friends.

Unsurprisingly, food-allergic diners have a larger say when choosing a restaurant to eat at with a group. Their needs drive the decision-making process, meaning that one food-allergic customer can influence the choices of entire parties—making allergy-aware restaurants the go-to spots for group dining.

And while 65 per cent of non-allergic consumers say price is the biggest barrier to eating out more often, only 39 per cent of food-allergic consumers feel the same. Safety largely outweighs price for them—they’re more willing to spend their money at places that make them feel safe. This kind of trust makes ripples over time, too—if they trust your establishment, you’ve likely earned a repeat customer who will not only return but also recommend you to others.

With customer loyalty more important than ever, this tells Canadian restaurants that being allergy-aware isn’t just good for your guests—it’s great for your bottom line! Food Allergy Canada makes it simple. Their Think Food Allergy resources provide restaurants with easy-to-use tools to educate staff and create safer dining environments for everyone.

Ready to turn this knowledge into action?

Visit ThinkFoodAllergy.ca for free resources, training videos, and tools.

CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS WITH CONFIDENCE: DINING OUT WITH FOOD ALLERGIES IN MIND

The holidays are an exciting time for gatherings, whether you are celebrating with family, friends, or co-workers. For people managing food allergies, holiday parties also mean taking a few extra steps in planning. To help manage the holidays confidently, check out these tips and visit foodallergycanada.ca for more information, including downloadable resources you can share with others.

PLAN AHEAD

Call the restaurant well in advance, especially during peak holiday seasons, to discuss your allergy and dining needs.

CHOOSE TRUSTED EATERIES

Stick to restaurants with a reputation for accommodating food allergies. A little research can go a long way.

MAKE INFORMED MEAL CHOICES

Work with the restaurant staff to select a safe meal option. Simple dishes often work best and are easier to accommodate.

ASK BEFORE YOU ORDER

Always communicate your food allergy before you place your order. A card that lists your allergies can be handed to the restaurant staff, making it easier to communicate during busy times.