#Japan #Tokyo #CAN EAT #Cardex #Edikio

Revolutionizing Buffet Dining with Allergy Awareness

Cardex Co., Ltd., a Japanese authorized distributor of Evolis card printers, has teamed up with CAN EAT Co., Ltd., a company dedicated to providing allergy management services. This collaboration aims to address the growing need for allergy information within the buffet dining experience, which is pivotal for customers with food allergies. The two organizations have officially begun a partnership that streamlines the process of printing allergy information cards on-site, crucial for enhancing both safety and guest satisfaction.

Recent Survey Highlights

A recent survey conducted by Cardex and CAN EAT targeted 1,000 hotel buffet diners. Astonishingly, the findings revealed that more than 26.8% of participants, particularly among younger generations, have food allergies or live with someone who does. Furthermore, 78.5% of those surveyed were unaware that the legal obligation to provide allergy information for unpackaged foods, such as those found in buffets, does not exist. This insight underscores the significant misconception among diners regarding their expectations of safety in buffet settings.

The report also emphasized that diners tend to have a favorable impression of hotels that provide comprehensive allergy information. A whopping 86.8% of respondents expressed a preference for establishments that cater to those with allergies, indicating that proper labeling can influence choices and encourage repeat visits.

Addressing Real-World Challenges

Despite the clear demand for allergy information, many establishments struggle to provide accurate and up-to-date information due to operational burdens. With the updated regulations for allergy labeling come April 2026, which expanded the number of specified allergenic ingredients to nine, the responsibility of ensuring accuracy and compliance in allergy communication has become increasingly challenging. Facilities often resort to eliminating allergy labels due to the complex processes involved in their creation.

To tackle this issue, the partnership between Cardex’s Edikio card printing solution and CAN EAT’s allergy management system ensures a seamless integration that effectively reduces workplace stress. Diners can now experience instant access to accurately labeled menus in just three easy steps:

Step 1: Image Capture

Staff can simply take a photo of the ingredient label or menu information using their smartphones, which allows immediate recognition of any changes or substitutions in menu offerings.

Step 2: Automated Judgment

Leveraging CAN EAT’s cutting-edge technology, the software accurately identifies allergens present in the images taken. This step is further validated through a professional double-check control to safeguard against human errors.

Step 3: Instant Card Printing

The validated data is then seamlessly transformed into ready-to-print formats tailored for the Edikio printer. The entire process takes mere moments, eliminating the need for manual laminating and allowing for the immediate issuance of durable, waterproof menu cards.

This collaboration not only dramatically reduces the risk of error but also empowers less experienced staff to produce menus quickly and efficiently, ensuring that high standards are maintained with less stress on staff.

Bridging the Gap in Guest Safety

As food allergies represent a growing concern within dining establishments, especially for younger families, the significant uptick in allergy-related inquiries has prompted both parties to expand their services. The collaboration signifies a substantial step in making the dining experience safer for everyone, ensuring that diners with allergies can enjoy meals without fear of exposure to allergens.

What Lies Ahead

In meeting the increasing expectations of diners with food allergies, Cardex and CAN EAT aim to diminish the operational burdens faced by the hotel and food service sectors. By integrating these systems, they hope to cultivate an environment where all guests can relish their dining experiences, regardless of dietary restrictions.

Remarks from Company Leaders

Nobuhiro Bando, CEO of Cardex, remarked on the collaboration, emphasizing how the Edikio Guest Flex system is prevalent in many hotels and bakeries. He expressed enthusiasm for aligning with CAN EAT and improving the accuracy and ease of allergy labeling.

On the other hand, Eri Tagahira, CEO of CAN EAT, articulated her belief that proper allergy identification and subsequent labeling are critical in preventing incidents and enhancing guest experience. She highlighted that their integrated efforts would contribute positively to the landscape of safe dining.

Conclusion

By joining forces, Cardex and CAN EAT are setting a new standard for allergy management in buffet dining. The developments achieved through this collaboration reflect an excellent advancement towards building trust and safety in the culinary landscape, where every diner can feel secure and welcomed.