Nisa supports partnership between Co-op and Natasha Allergy Research Foundation

Allergy Awareness Week runs from 25 April to 1 May. Tanya Ednan-Laperouse, from the Natasha Allergy Research Foundation, explains the importance of raising awareness and how Nisa Retailers are supporting the Foundation just by stocking the Co-op Free From range. And Jayne Brown, Co-op Free From Brand Manager, talks about why clear food labelling matters.

There are an estimated 2 million people with diagnosed food allergies in the UK - including roughly one child in every class in every UK school. Food allergies surround us. These aren’t personal choices or food intolerances, but a very real danger.

The Natasha Allergy Research Foundation was set up as a legacy to my daughter Natasha who died from an allergic reaction to sesame. Her death could have been prevented if the sandwich she purchased included sesame seeds on its ingredients label. She was just 15. Through medical research, law and policy changes, and by raising allergy awareness, we want to offer real hope for those who live with life-threatening allergies.

Last October, Natasha’s Law came into force. It was a major milestone for The Foundation and allergy sufferers across the UK. It very simply ensures all pre-packed food for sale lists all ingredients used. It was a fundamental change in direction for us, and it helps with continued education and awareness too.

But it’s so important for food producers, supermarkets and cafes to continue that education. And that’s where Nisa & Co-op come in.

“We feature clear food labelling across all of our products", explains Jayne Brown, Co-op Free From brand manager. “You’ll find labelling that displays whether a product is gluten-free, vegan or vegetarian. Additionally, our pre-packaged products very clearly show any allergens in bold in the list of ingredients."

“We’ve taken this a step further as we continue to develop our Free From range. With these products, we want to make life simpler for those who need to be careful about what they eat. Which is why you’ll find a wide range of essentials and treats that are gluten-free, milk-free, egg-free or also vegan. We’re pleased that a selection of our Free From Range products have been shortlisted at the Free From Awards 2022, demonstrating that the range is not only safe for allergens but tastes great too.”

Nisa Retailers are proud that they have access to the wider Co-op range as well as the specific Co-op Free From array of products.

From 13 April to 3 May, when Nisa Retailers purchase Co-op Free-From to stock in their stores 10% of the proceeds will be donated to Natasha’s Foundation. This is part of a three-year partnership, with an overall commitment to raise £100,000 to support our life-changing work and research.

Donations last year raised an amazing £30,000, which is already going towards our ground-breaking medical research to understand, manage and potentially even reverse allergic reactions in the future. We hope to raise even more this year.

To become more allergy aware, visit narf.org.uk.