UPDATED: Guidance on using flour in early years settings

The Food Standards Agency recently updated their guidance on the 19.08.24, relating to using flour or dough for crafts and play activities.

picture is of two little girls baking together

Raw flour can contain bacteria such as Escherichia coli (E.coli) and can cause food poisoning if consumed. The new update has removed the option of using heat treatment, in controlling risk.

The updated guidance now has a focus on using hygiene measures to reduce risk. You may wish to use this advice to support how you manage the risks during these activities.

It is particularly important to follow this advice, when caring for children as their immune system may not be able to fight off infections as easily, so additional care is needed when handling these products.

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