What can manufacturers do to improve the labeling of packaged foods with allergen information?
We are pleased to present our detailed discussion on the role that food manufacturers play in improving labeling of allergens on packaged foods. The purpose of this article is to give a thorough understanding on how improved labeling can lead to safer food consumption and increased consumer awareness. This article will explore the topic's importance, provide practical implementation steps, examples from real life, and offer additional tips. Let's begin!
Improved allergen labeling is important
It is important to understand the importance of better allergen labels. According to Food Allergy Research & Education, approximately 32 million Americans suffer from food allergies. These allergies are not only a nuisance - they can cause severe reactions, or even lead to death. To protect the consumer, it is important to label allergens clearly and accurately.
A better allergen labeling is also beneficial to the food producers themselves. They can gain trust from consumers by providing accurate allergen labeling and avoid lawsuits. According to a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report, food allergies in children have increased about 50% from 1997-2011. This highlights the need for improved allergen labels.
Important Points for Getting Started
First, ensure that you are in compliance with FALCPA (Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act). The Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act (FALCPA) requires that food producers clearly state if their products contain any of the major eight food allergens. It is also important to keep in mind that more than eight food allergens can affect an individual. By going above and beyond FALCPA requirements, it is possible to improve consumer safety by identifying less common allergens.
Cross-contamination is another important issue to consider. It is possible that a product may come into contact with allergens even if it does not contain them directly. Included "may contain statements" can give additional information for highly sensitive people.
Improved Allergen Labeling Examples
- Use bold text in order to draw attention to allergens on the list of ingredients.
- Provide a "Contains" label that includes all allergens.
- Include a statement "May Contain", to alert the user of possible cross contamination risks.
- Use symbols or colour coding to identify allergens.
- Labels should be updated whenever the manufacturing or recipe process is changed.
- Ensure that the allergen label is clearly visible, and does not hide it in tiny print.
- Train staff on the importance of labeling correctly and possible consequences.
- You can also seek third-party certifications from organisations such as the Gluten-Free Certification Organization.
- Avoid using technical or scientific terms which consumers might not understand.
- Keep up to date with the latest research on food allergies and new regulations.
Allergen Labeling Tips: Additional Guidelines
Engaging with customers and soliciting their feedback is a good way to get the best results. It can be a great way to identify areas that are confusing or causing concern. Manufacturers can work with advocacy groups for allergy sufferers to understand their needs. Finally, by investing in continuous training for employees, they can stay up to date on regulatory and best practice changes.
Conclusion
In summary, the improvement of allergen labels on packaged food is a matter both for consumer safety and business. This requires clear communication, consistent compliance to regulations and an understanding of and commitment to the needs and wants of food allergy sufferers. These practices can help manufacturers to contribute to safer food consumption, and strengthen their relationship with customers.
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