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Introduction Allergic Reations Most Likely Suspects A Growing Problem Multiple Allergies Food Labeling: A Critical Component Fda's Role Industry Response Labeling Policy Gaps In Allergen Labeling Consumer Involvement

The Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act requires, in virtually all cases, that all the ingredients of a food be listed on the food label. Two exemptions to the labeling requirements recently have been involved in a number of reported food allergen reactions: the collective naming of spices, flavorings, and colorings; and insignificant levels of additives in a food that do not have a technical or functional effect on the final product. The FDA, however, does not consider food allergens eligible for the latter labeling exemption. The agency also strongly encourages the declaration of an allergenic ingredient in a spice, flavor, or color.

"While the FDA believes that food processors make a sincere effort to label the ingredients in their food products completely, it's clear from data on food recalls that firms do miss including some allergenic ingredients on their food labels," says Falci.

Last modified: September 2002
Ray Formanek Jr. is editor of FDA Consumer.

U.S. Food and Drug Administration
FDA Consumer
July-August 2001