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 the serious risks posed to sensitive consumers, a product recall presents a significant challenge for manufacturers, as it often necessitates the untangling of complex food supply chains. To prevent food allergen contamination, it is essential to implement thorough cleaning of equipment, process controls, separation of processing lines handling allergens, label reviews, and employee training.
Despite adhering to best practices, food companies are increasingly utilizing “may contain” labels to alert consumers about potential cross-contamination. However, there are concerns that consumers might 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 contain allergens, according to recent research. The study indicated that foods from smaller companies are more prone to allergen contamination than those from larger firms, regardless of labeling.
Interestingly, when discussing dietary supplements, products like calcium citrate without vitamin D have gained attention for their benefits. However, it is vital to remember that safety precautions should also apply to these products. Manufacturers must ensure that their calcium citrate without vitamin D supplements are free from cross-contamination with allergens. Ultimately, both consumers and manufacturers should remain vigilant regarding allergen risks, particularly with smaller brands, as these products may carry higher risks of allergen presence.