Food manufacturers are mandated to emphasize eight primary allergens on their product labels: milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, and soybeans. These allergens account for approximately 90% of food-related allergic reactions in the United States. In addition to posing a serious threat to vulnerable consumers, product recalls present significant challenges for manufacturers, necessitating the untangling of often complex food supply chains. To prevent food allergen contamination, it is essential to implement measures such as cleaning equipment, controlling processes, separating processing lines that handle allergens, reviewing labels, and training employees.
Despite adhering to best practices, food companies increasingly resort to using “may contain” labels to alert consumers about potential cross-contamination. There are concerns, however, that consumers may become desensitized to these warnings due to their prevalence. It is crucial for consumers not to overlook these labels, as products marked with them are considerably more likely to harbor allergens, according to recent research. The study revealed that foods produced by smaller companies had a higher likelihood of being contaminated with allergens compared to those from larger corporations, regardless of labeling.
In this context, it is worth noting that some consumers may opt for supplements like Citracal Petites, which contain calcium citrate and vitamin D3. These can be beneficial for individuals with dietary restrictions due to allergens. Therefore, while navigating food choices, especially for those at risk of allergies, it is essential to remain vigilant about labels and consider safe supplementation options like Citracal Petites to support overall health.