At PacMoore, we go to extreme measures to ensure that food is safe for consumption. When it comes to allergies, it is critical to keep people safe with clear and effective warnings.
Allergy labeling is an important part of what we do. Here’s why.
What Are Food Allergens?
Most consumers are aware of the warning on food packaging: “This product contains nuts.” Indeed, peanuts are one of the most serious and prevalent allergens found in consumables, but they are not alone. An allergen is any substance that causes an adverse reaction in the body.
Depending on a person’s immunities, his or her body might perceive a specific ingredient as an invader. The subsequent response could be anywhere from a sneeze to a rash. In more severe cases, however, the body can react in a life-threatening way, such as with swelling in the throat.
To protect people from this potential danger, certain foods require allergy labeling. Read on to learn what allergy advice on packaging entails.
What Should Food Allergy Warnings Look Like?
Knowing that your product needs an allergy warning is the first step, but there is a world of regulations and guidelines in place to make sure brands are consistent. Food allergies are so serious that the U.S. has an established organization dedicated to compliance: The Food & Drug Administration.
FDA allergen labeling requirements are strict. For example, the warning statement cannot be smaller than the ingredient list. The language itself must also comply with approved wording. Consumers with extreme allergies have trained themselves over time to spot words such as “milk,” but other dairy products such as “butter” and “cheese” may be missed, so food manufacturers cannot deviate. Wording requirements get even more specific with complex allergens, including tree nuts and shellfish.
Are Any Food Products Exempt from Required Food Allergy Warnings?
Most packaged foods must stick to food allergy warning guidelines, but there are some exceptions. Fresh fruits and vegetables are an example. Additionally, highly refined foods that are themselves allergens do not have to be labeled as such. For instance, peanut oil does not need to indicate that the product contains peanuts. The purpose of allergen warnings is to be transparent, not cumbersome.
How Can PacMoore Help with Compliance?
At every stage of food production and packaging, PacMoore is here to help. We are experts with labeling requirements of all types. Trust PacMoore to package and label your specialty food products and ensure you remain compliant.
As a leading food manufacturing company, and we’re flexible and able to adapt our practices to adhere to legal regulations — whether it’s for food allergens or another FDA priority. Contact us today to learn more about what PacMoore can do for you.