Dietary & Food Safety

We understand that food choices can involve allergies, medical dietary needs, cultural or religious preferences, and personal values. Our goal is to provide clear, practical information so families can make informed decisions.

Because a school canteen is a fast-paced environment with shared preparation areas, some limitations apply. Where there is any uncertainty, we encourage families to contact us before ordering.

1. Allergens & cross-contact

We take allergen management seriously; however, we cannot guarantee that any item is completely free of allergens.

A canteen environment involves shared:

• preparation benches and equipment
• utensils and storage areas
• refrigerators, ovens and service areas

Even with careful processes, cross-contact may occur.

If a student has a severe allergy or anaphylaxis risk, families are strongly encouraged to contact the canteen prior to ordering to discuss suitability and risk.

2. Special dietary options

Where practical, we aim to provide menu options suitable for common dietary requirements. Availability may vary by day and service period.

Examples of dietary requests we often see include:

• Vegetarian
• Vegan
• Dairy-free
• Gluten-free (where applicable)

Important note on "gluten-free": Some items may be made without gluten-containing ingredients; however, due to shared preparation areas, we may not be able to guarantee suitability for medically diagnosed coeliac disease or severe gluten sensitivity. If this applies, please contact us before ordering.

3. Cultural & religious considerations (including halal)

We respect cultural and religious dietary preferences and understand that families may look for items aligned to those needs.

Where applicable, some menu items may be halal-friendly based on ingredients and preparation approach. However, if formal certification or strict handling requirements are essential for your family, please contact us so we can provide the most accurate information available for that menu item.

We encourage families to review ingredient and menu notes and reach out if they require clarity.

4. Menu labelling & symbols

To make ordering easier, our menu uses simple labels or symbols to indicate common dietary attributes. These may include:

• Vegetarian
• Vegan
• Gluten-free (where applicable)
• Dairy-free (where applicable)

A clear legend/key is included on the menu (and in Flexischools) so families can interpret symbols consistently.

If you are unsure whether an item is suitable for your child's needs, please contact us before ordering.

5. Food safety standards

We operate in line with NSW food safety requirements and follow appropriate food handling, storage and hygiene practices as part of daily operations.

This includes, as appropriate:

• safe food storage and temperature control
• hygienic preparation practices
• cleaning and sanitising routines
• safe service and holding procedures during busy periods

Our priority is always safe food handling, consistency, and clear communication with families.

6. NSW Healthy School Canteen alignment

Our menu approach aligns with the NSW Healthy School Canteen Strategy and is designed for the school environment — balancing everyday options with practical service realities.

As menus change over time, the live Flexischools menu is always the most accurate source for current items and availability.

7. If you need help choosing

If you're unsure what is suitable for your child (particularly where severe allergies, medical dietary needs, or strict cultural/religious requirements apply), please contact us:

• Email: canteen@tripletwothree.com.au
• Phone: 1300 314 283

We will always aim to respond helpfully and clearly.

8. Sustainability & waste awareness

In a school canteen environment, sustainability must be balanced with food safety, speed of service and student access.

Where practical, we:

• use packaging that is appropriate for school-day service and food safety
• aim to reduce unnecessary packaging
• prepare food in quantities aligned with demand to reduce waste
• review menu items based on uptake and practicality

Sustainability initiatives may evolve over time and will always be implemented in a way that supports safe, reliable service.