Conference for Food Protection

Acknowledgement of the Food Allergen Committee report and re-creation of the Committee to continue its work over the next two years.

Nearly four percent of Americans (approximately 12 million) are affected by food allergies, including 3.7 percent of adults, and six percent of children younger than three years of age (Sicherer and Sampson 2006). Prevalence statistics vary according to methodology, including the assessment of food allergy via confirmed diagnosis, versus self-report (Rona, et al, 2007). Still, food allergy is a problem that pediatricians and scientists say is increasing among children (NIAID, 2006; Sicherer and Sampson, 2006). Additional research by FAAN (Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network) concludes that many food allergic reactions occur outside the home in restaurants and food service establishments.

acknowledgment of the Food Allergen Committee report and thanking the committee members for their work.

The Conference further recommends the re-creation of the Food Allergen Committee to extend the reach of food allergy education, training and awareness as follows:

• Identify appropriate strategies to develop an FDA "endorsed" Allergen Management Course, including the review of course curriculum.
• Review the pending publication of FDA materials and guidance document(s) related to allergen management.
• Utilize the strengths of groups like FAAN and IFIC Foundation (in cooperation with the CFP Food Allergen Committee) to define and lead a health professional outreach activity such as a "food allergy resource page" of educational materials suitable for state/local regulatory officials, food managers, and food employees.
• Add a CDC representative to serve on the CFP Food Allergen Committee to help enhance our current public health perspectives and assist in the development and dissemination of a health professional outreach activity.
• Report back to the 2012 Biennial Meeting with the outcome of these charges.