Issue View | Council I | 2016 Biennial Meeting

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Labeling for Food Allergen Cross-Contact

Adding an addendum to the 2013 FDA Food Code subparagraph 3-602.11(B)(5) to include a statement on a product's label, when applicable, that cross-contact with specifically named allergens is possible.

Consumers assume that delis, bakeries, grocery stores, restaurants, and other venues that sell pre-packaged foods (i.e., foods NOT produced and packaged in manufacturing plants that fall under the provisions of the Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act, FALCPA) are labeled as stringently for the presence of allergens as manufactured products, and also assume that these venues practice strict allergen control. Because the labels seldom indicate the potential presence of allergens due to cross-contact, reactions have occurred, including food anaphylaxis deaths.

that a letter be sent to the FDA requesting that subparagraph 3-601.11(B)(5) of the 2013 Food Code be amended as follows (language to add is underlined):

3-601.11 Food Labels.

(B) Label information shall include:

(5) The name of the FOOD source for each MAJOR FOOD ALLERGEN contained in the FOOD unless the FOOD source is already part of the common or usual name of the respective ingredient.^Pf When applicable, all pre-packaged items will have a label stating that the food may have been in contact with allergens specifically named by the venue preparing and/or packaging the product.