Tag: Precautionary allergen labeling

According to the Food Allergy Research and Education (FARE), over 33 million Americans have food allergies, with many relying on food labels to avoid potentially life-threatening reactions. This growing public health concern drives the critical question: should may contain labeling be used under the regulation to improve consistency and consumer confidence?

According to a US survey of over 20,000 products, 17% had a precautionary allergen label (PAL). This raises a key question for many with food allergies and their families: are precautionary allergen labels voluntary, or are manufacturers legally mandated to include them?

According to Food Allergy Research and Education (FARE), over 32 million Americans are affected by food allergies. The statement "may contain" on a food label is a common sight for many consumers, and understanding its meaning is critical for those managing allergies. This voluntary warning, also known as precautionary allergen labeling (PAL), is used by food manufacturers to signal a potential risk of accidental allergen cross-contact during production.

According to the Food Standards Agency, precautionary allergen labeling (PAL) is advised when an unavoidable and genuine risk of allergen cross-contact is identified, and one common example of a precautionary statement on a food package is "May contain nuts". These voluntary warnings are vital for individuals with food allergies, communicating potential contamination risks that cannot be completely eliminated during manufacturing. The precise wording can vary, but the intent is always to inform consumers about the possible, unintended presence of allergens.