This Blog Post “May Contain” Information About Allergen Labeling
- Ilana Dubrovsky
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
Individuals with food allergies scan food labels for allergens so frequently that they can start to visualize labels in their sleep, however, those who receive a new food allergy diagnosis may not previously have given much thought to the complexities of reading labels.
This is a significant adjustment that newly diagnosed individuals will need to make to their everyday routines, but it can be tricky to navigate. Whether you are new to the allergy world or need a quick refresher after many years of reading tiny print on the sides of boxes and bags, it is a good idea to learn what to look for on a label.
What’s Required? Understanding the FDA Regulations
Certain aspects of an ingredient label are regulated by U.S. federal law. Products regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) must clearly state if the product contains a food or ingredient derived from one of the top nine major food allergens: milk, egg, fish, shellfish, peanut, tree nut, wheat, soy, and sesame.
The major allergens should appear in one of two ways:
Within the full ingredient list, in parentheses next to the allergen’s source, such as lecithin (soy), all-purpose flour (wheat), whey (milk), albumin (egg)).
At the end of the full list, followed by a “contains” statement. This line is often bolded on the label (e.g. Contains Milk, Wheat, Soy, and Egg.)
What’s Optional? Understanding "Precautionary Allergen Labeling"
Other allergy-related statements may appear on food products that are optional for the manufacturer and not regulated by law. These statements are known as precautionary allergen labeling (PAL). Examples of PAL statements may include:
“May contain [a top nine allergen]”
“May contain traces of [a top nine allergen]”
“Manufactured in the same facility as [a top nine allergen]”
“Processed on shared equipment with [a top nine allergen]”
The inclusion and wording of these statements are at the discretion of the manufacturer. It is important to note that the presence or absence of these statements on a food product is not an accurate reflection of the risk for exposure to an allergen if the product is consumed. It can be understandably scary for someone with potentially life-threatening food allergies to see labels like this, as it can significantly limit their list of safe foods.
To Avoid or Not To Avoid?
PAL statements can make label reading difficult and stressful for consumers that need to be careful about consuming even small amounts of their allergens. If you think that might be you, it is important to know that you are not alone in this. There are steps you can take to minimize your risk of exposure.
Practice label reading early, as soon as you are diagnosed or as soon as your child can read.
Do your research: contact manufacturers and ask about their cleaning and allergen mitigation practices and whether their facility is dedicated free from any (or all) of the top nine allergens.
If you’re not sure, avoid it.
Talk to your allergist, primary care provider, or registered dietitian for recommendations and learn more about your risk level.
Seek help from a food allergy dietitian, if you do not have one.
Reading food labels can be confusing and anxiety-inducing for people with food allergies, even for those who have been doing it for years. Luckily, there are many resources available to help and you are certainly not alone in this experience. Always do your research and get help from professionals when you need it.
References
Food Allergy Research and Education. How to Read a Food Label. n.d.
United States Food and Drug Administration. Have Food Allergies? Read the Label. 2023.
Grimshaw. Food Labelling for the Food Allergic Consumer. 2013.