Generous shoppers in Teignbridge can help a fundraising campaign to support medical research aimed at eradicating food allergies.

For the sixth year running, Tesco is partnering with The Natasha Allergy Research Foundation to promote awareness of food allergies.

Through campaigning, education and research, the charity’s mission is to #MakeAllergyHistory, in particular food allergy.

During Allergy Awareness Week, which runs until April 28, Tesco stores in Teignbridge will donate 10p to the charity from the sale of more than 151 Free From and Tesco allergy medication products bought in store or online.

Teignbridge customers will also have the opportunity to round up their shopping to the nearest £1 at self-service checkouts from 21 April to 4 May.

All the money raised will help Natasha’s Foundation to improve the lives of people affected by food allergies.

The Natasha Allergy Research Foundation was set up in 2019 by Tanya and Nadim Ednan-Laperouse OBEs, following the tragic death of their 15-year-old daughter Natasha, who had a fatal allergic reaction to a baguette containing sesame seeds that were not listed on the packaging.

Nadim and Tanya said: ‘We’d like to thank Tesco and its customers for their continued support of Natasha’s Foundation.

'Food allergies are not a choice or lifestyle preference, they are a serious, unpredictable medical condition that impacts the lives of millions of people in this country. For some, they are life-threatening.

‘Previous donations from Tesco have helped us to raise awareness and understanding of food allergies, fund medical research and be a voice for the allergy community.

‘Thank you for your on-going support and allowing us to continue this important work to improve the lives of people with food allergies.’

Natasha’s Foundation is the only allergy charity dedicated to medical research, with the aim of understanding what is causing the dramatic rise in allergic disease – and developing ways to prevent, treat and ultimately eradicate it.

With support from Tesco, Natasha’s Foundation launched its Allergy School programme earlier this year, providing expert-led resources to create inclusive and safe environments for children with food allergies.

Oonagh Turnbull, Head of Health Campaigns at Tesco, said: ‘We know customers are concerned about the potential dangers of food allergies, so we are proud to be working with the Natasha Allergy Research Foundation to raise awareness and fund potentially life-changing research.

'There is a wide range of products in our Free From range, from meals and desserts to snacks, all created with great taste but without any of the allergens.

‘We welcome any shoppers to try these products or kindly round up their shopping at the self-service tills to help raise money for a fantastic cause.’