The World Food Allergy Day
In celebration of World Allergy Day on Monday, 8 July, Invitek is shedding light on the significance of food allergen labeling. For individuals with food allergies, accurate and comprehensive labeling can be a matter of life and death. In this article, we will delve into the science behind food allergens and explain why transparent labeling practices are essential for the health and safety of consumers.
Why accurate food allergen labeling matters
Food allergies occur when the immune system has an adverse reaction to proteins in certain foods. This reaction can range from mild discomfort to severe and life-threatening symptoms. Common food allergens include peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, wheat (gluten), soya, fish, and shellfish. Over the past two decades, the prevalence of food allergies has seen a significant increase. Repeated cross-sectional data from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) food safety surveys, administered in 2001, 2006, and 2010, indicated a substantial rise in self-reported allergy to any food among adults during that time, escalating from 9.1% in 2001 to 14.9% in 2010.1 This trend is not confined to the United States; over 250 million people worldwide are affected by food allergies, which impacts nearly 5% of adults and 8% of children.2 This global increase in prevalence underscores the growing importance of understanding and addressing food allergies.
The role of food allergen labeling cannot be overemphasized. Health-conscious individuals understand the importance of knowing exactly what they are consuming. For individuals with food allergies, this awareness is not just a matter of preference – it is a matter of safety. A comprehensive and clear food allergen label serves as a vital tool for those with allergies, allowing them to make informed choices and avoid potentially harmful substances. By clearly indicating the presence of allergens in food products, individuals with allergies can navigate their dietary choices with confidence, minimizing the risk of accidental exposure
Regulatory guidelines and best practices
In many countries and regions, regulatory bodies and authorities have established guidelines for the labeling of food allergens.3,4 These guidelines aim to standardize labeling practices across the industry, providing consumers with consistent and reliable information. Currently, food manufacturers selling products in the European Union are required to label 14 allergens under EU law (Regulation (EU) No. 1169/2011). These allergens include cereals containing gluten, milk, eggs, nuts, peanuts, soybeans, fish, crustaceans, mollusks, celery, lupin, sesame, mustard, and sulphites – these are:
“The Usual Suspects”.
Similarly, in the United States, the Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act (FALCPA) requires food labels to list ingredients that may cause allergic reactions. This must be emphasized in the list of ingredients by using an approved different font, letter size, or background color. This makes grocery shopping less stressful as consumers can see which foods contain allergens and which do not.
Upgrade your food allergen detection practices today
As a food manufacturer or food testing laboratory, you can take an important step towards safe and compliant food allergen testing practices by exploring Invitek Diagnostics’ full range of food allergen test kits. Empower yourself with the tools you need to support your customers with informed decisions and advocate for transparent allergen labeling practices. Your stronger commitment to food safety starts here.
Invitek Diagnostics offers a comprehensive range of products for food allergen testing in three main categories: InviScreen® PCR kits, InviLisa® ELISA assays, and InviRapid® lateral flow test strips.
The InviScreen® Allergen PCR Detection Kits are a high-quality molecular biology tool designed for general laboratory and research personnel. It provides an easy and ready-to-use method for the detection of specific allergens in food and feed samples. For DNA purification prior to testing using the InviScreen® kits, the InviSorb® Spin Food Extraction Kit offers an efficient protocol for various starting materials including difficult food matrices such as fatty foods and highly processed ready-to-eat meals.
The InviLisa® Allergen ELISA Assays are designed to detect and quantitate various food allergens in matrices such as food products, rinse waters, and swabs. Each kit contains efficient extraction reagents for a precise and sensitive immunoassay. The kits use a standardized 60-minute sandwich assay, helping ensure accurate quantification of allergens, which is essential for quality control and regulatory compliance.
The InviRapid® Lateral Flow Devices provide a fast and easy detection of diverse allergens within just a few minutes. These assays are suitable for on-site analysis, and do not require use of any laboratory equipment. They are user-friendly, even for inexperienced personnel, and can be applied in all stages of the food production process - from testing raw materials to finished-goods samples, and as part of surface cleaning validation.
In consideration of World Allergy Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to promoting understanding and awareness of food allergens. By embracing transparent labeling practices and advocating for the rights of consumers, we can help create a world where everyone can make informed and safe food choices. Accurate food allergen labeling is not just a matter of compliance – it is a fundamental aspect of consumer health and well-being.
REFERENCES:
