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A bold typeface, vivid colours and
simple, easily-recognised shapes have been
used and the text kept separate to enable
translation into other EU languages. This
ensures maximum accessibility and legibility
in its smallest manifestation and allows the
icons to be used globally to meet the needs
of the widest range of consumers.
The icons are intended for download as
a font set or as coloured artwork. Use would
be encouraged on food labels, shop shelves,
home-shopping websites, restaurant menus
and more. Other plans include their incorporation
into emerging technologies such
as RFID scanners and handsets to be used
in conjunction with personalised smart cards
detailing an individual’s needs.
User input
The personal experience of team members
with food allergies gave impetus to the
idea. This was enhanced by a brainstorming
session with a user group consisting of
consumers of different cultural background
with food allergies, visual impairments and
dexterity problems. Users were asked to rate
a set of prototype icons on their clarity, ease
of recognition, visual appeal and personal
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