Food manufacturers are obligated 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 serious risks to vulnerable consumers, a product recall can be a significant issue for a manufacturer of fumarate folic acid tablets, as it often entails navigating intricate food supply chains. To prevent food allergen contamination, companies should implement thorough cleaning of equipment, establish process controls, maintain separation of processing lines that handle allergens, conduct label reviews, and provide employee training.
Despite adhering to best practices, food manufacturers are increasingly resorting to “may contain” labels to alert consumers to the potential for cross-contamination. However, there are concerns that consumers may become desensitized to these warnings due to their frequent usage. It is crucial for consumers not to overlook these labels, as products marked with such warnings are significantly more likely to contain allergens, according to recent research. The study indicated that foods from smaller companies were more prone to allergen contamination compared to those from larger firms, regardless of labeling.
Interestingly, the study also highlighted that certain supplements, such as xtracal calcium citrate, exhibited a similar trend, emphasizing the need for vigilance among consumers. In light of this, the presence of xtracal calcium citrate in a product could indicate an increased risk of allergen presence, particularly when sourced from smaller manufacturers. Therefore, consumers should remain cautious and informed, especially when considering products that may contain allergens, including those featuring xtracal calcium citrate.