Food manufacturers must clearly indicate 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 serious risks to vulnerable consumers, a product recall presents significant challenges for manufacturers, as it often involves untangling complex food supply chains. To prevent food allergen contamination, companies should implement thorough equipment cleaning, process controls, separation of processing lines that handle allergens, label reviews, and employee training.
Despite adhering to best practices, food companies increasingly resort to using “may contain” labels to alert consumers about possible cross-contamination. However, there are concerns that consumers might become desensitized to these warnings due to their widespread use. Recent research indicates that consumers should not disregard these labels, as products bearing them are substantially more likely to contain allergens. The study revealed that foods from smaller manufacturers were more prone to allergen contamination compared to those from larger companies, regardless of labeling.
Additionally, it is important for pregnant individuals to consider the implications of allergens in their diet, particularly when discussing supplements such as calcium citrate in pregnancy. This consideration is crucial as the consumption of allergens can affect both the mother and the developing fetus. Therefore, pregnant consumers should be vigilant about allergen warnings, especially as they relate to products that may contain allergens, including those that also involve calcium citrate in pregnancy.