12/31/2025
As Worldwide Foodservice Safety Month comes to a close, we at BSF wanted to share some helpful information on how to prevent cross-contamination, specifically involving allergens. Working in the seafood industry, with shellfish ranking among the top food allergens, it is extremely important that we take extra precautions to help keep both those who handle our products and those who consume them safe.
In a fast-paced foodservice environment, cross-contamination can happen quickly and often unintentionally. Even small traces of shellfish proteins transferred through shared equipment, surfaces, or hands can pose serious risks to individuals with shellfish allergies. That is why consistent procedures, clear communication, and ongoing training are essential at every stage of handling, from storage and preparation to service and cleanup.
Best practices to reduce the risk of shellfish cross-contamination include:
• Dedicated storage by keeping shellfish clearly labeled and stored separately from other food items in sealed containers
• Separate equipment such as designated cutting boards, knives, utensils, gloves, and prep areas used exclusively for shellfish
• Proper hand hygiene by washing hands thoroughly and changing gloves before and after handling shellfish or moving between tasks
• Thorough cleaning and sanitation of all surfaces, equipment, and tools immediately after shellfish preparation
• Clear staff communication between front- and back-of-house teams regarding allergens and guest needs
• Ongoing training to reinforce allergen awareness, cross-contact risks, and proper response procedures
At BSF, we are committed to supporting our foodservice partners with safe, responsibly handled seafood and reliable best-practice guidance. By building strong allergen-control practices into daily operations, teams can help minimize risk, protect guests with allergies, and strengthen a culture of food safety not just during Worldwide Foodservice Safety Month, but year-round!