The Megan Lee Award at the Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI) annual Hero Awards is named in honour of Megan Lee, who lost her life at just 15 years old after eating a takeaway that contained undisclosed allergens.
The recognition celebrates the Trading Standards team’s commitment to protecting vulnerable consumers and promoting best practices, ensuring the safety and wellbeing of communities across Lancashire and beyond.
Accomplishments
This included conducting over 300 allergen sampling tests, leading to seven prosecutions and two cautions, and producing educational resources such as the short films ‘Megan’s Story’ and ‘A Day in the Life of Chloe’ which highlight the dangers of anaphylaxis.
CTSI chief executive John Herriman said: “The Lancashire County Council Trading Standards Food Team has shown extraordinary dedication and innovation in tackling the vital issue of food allergens.
“Their work has saved lives, raised awareness, and created lasting change in how allergens are managed. The Megan Lee Award is a fitting tribute to their achievements.”
CTSI created this award to recognise individuals or groups that have done something outstanding to protect the public from serious food safety breaches.
‘Protecting the public’
County councillor Michael Green, cabinet member for Health and Wellbeing, Lancashire County Council, added: “We’re extremely proud of the vital work we have done to protect the public and raise awareness of the dangers of allergies. Receiving the Megan Lee Award is a great honour, and further reinforces our position as an authority that is leading the way in this area.
“I would like to once again thank Gemma and Adam Lee in helping to raise awareness of food allergens following the tragic loss of their daughter, Megan. Our Trading Standards team will continue to do everything in their power to educate businesses and the wider public around this important issue.”
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