Clive Schlee, CEO of Pret A Manger, has released the following statement: 'We are deeply sorry for the loss of Natasha Ednan-Laperouse, who died after eating a Pret baguette containing sesame. I said we would learn from this tragedy and ensure meaningful changes result from it.
In the last two years, we have been improving our allergen information. We now display declarable allergens for our freshly made products on shelf tickets in front of each item. We also have signs in our fridges, on product packaging, and at till points advising customers with allergies to speak with a Manager to see our Allergen Guide.
We recognise there is much more we can do. We will start trialling new labels which show full ingredients, including allergens, on packaging from next month. This will be rolled out to all UK shops as quickly as possible.
Pret is also committed to working with others, including the government, regulatory authorities, charity groups and industry peers to secure legislative changes to better protect people with allergies.
In the meantime, we will be making the following changes within the next few weeks:
1. Prominent allergen warning stickers will be placed on all freshly made products
2. Additional allergen warning signs will be displayed in shops
3. Full ingredient information, including allergens, for all products will be available online and in shops
I hope this sets us on course to drive change in the industry and ensure customers with allergies are as protected and informed as possible. Nothing is more important to Pret right now.'