Government must require all staff working in a catering service to be provided with basic coeliac disease awareness training, to ensure a set standard of understanding & awareness around the importance of meal preparation & food serving to a person with Coeliac disease including cross-contamination.

Coeliac disease is a chronic autoimmune disorder where the ingestion of gluten - a protein found in wheat, barley and rye, triggers an immune response that can significantly damage the small intestines. I have come across many food industries, who offer gluten free options however, are unaware the importance to prepare this separately to avoid cross-contamination. Coeliac is not an allergy but is chronic disorder and should be taken as seriously as any allergy.