State Lawmakers Add Food Allergies to Test for Restaurants

Restaurant Chefs may soon have to take a test on food allergies. The Connecticut State House of Representatives recently passed legislation adding food allergies to the list of topics restaurant owners and their employees must be tested on to become qualified food operators in Connecticut. The bill passed 77-to-49. It awaits action in the State Senate. Qualified food operators must now maintain documentation that they have passed a test administered by a testing organization approved by the state Department of Public Health. Food handlers are typically tested on cleanliness and food preparation. Backers of the bill believe it is important that food handlers know about food allergies because they affect a growing number of people, especially children. In some cases, a food allergy can be deadly. Opponents say the legislation opens restaurants up to liability problems. They argue that it's impossible for a food operator to know about their customers' food allergies. http://www.wtnh.com