How to lobby for improved allergen labeling laws
This article will discuss the benefits of lobbying for better allergen labeling legislation and offer practical ways to contribute. Dietitian and nutritionist by training, I am well aware of the importance that accurate and clear food labels play in addressing dietary requirements, especially for those with food allergies. Because of this, I think it's our collective duty to push for stronger allergen labeling legislation.
It is important to advocate for enhanced allergen labeling laws
It is important to lobby for better allergen labeling legislation because this directly affects the safety and health of people with food allergies. An estimated 3 2,000,000 Americans suffer from food allergies, with 5.6 millions of them being children. About two children in each classroom suffer from a food-related allergy. Food labels that are misinterpreted or do not provide enough information can cause severe allergic reactions and even life-threatening anaphylaxis.
A better allergen labeling law can also benefit the wider population, by increasing transparency within the food industry. In a 2018 Journal of Food Protection study , it was found that improved allergen labels could lead to fewer product recalls. This would save companies money while improving the trust of consumers.
Important Points for Getting Started
Education is the first step in advocacy. Learn about the allergen labeling law in your own country, and its limitations. In the United States for example, the Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act requires only the labeling of 8 major food allergens. There may be different laws in other countries. According to a 2016 study by the Food Standards Agency, many consumers are confused or unable to understand current allergen labelling.
You can begin by raising the issue amongst your circle once you have become aware. Remember, every voice counts!
How to lobby for improved allergen labeling laws
- Send an email or a letter to your local representative expressing your concerns.
- Create a Change.org petition to gain public support for better allergen labeling.
- Social media can be used to spread awareness and gain support for a cause.
- Allergy UK or Food Allergy Research & Education are two of the many allergy advocacy organizations that you can join.
- Participate in public hearings or meetings on food safety.
- Organise educational workshops with the help of local schools or institutions on allergies to food and how important it is that labels are clear.
- Write about your issue with the help of journalists and bloggers.
- Encourage others to follow suit and support companies who label allergens in a transparent manner.
- Give feedback on the allergen labeling of food products and suggest improvements.
- Lobby for a law that would require restaurants to list allergens on their menus.
Other Tips
It's not necessary to be the only lobbyist. Join forces with others who have the same concerns. Working together can increase your impact. Remember to be patient and persistent. It can take a long time to change the law, but each effort will help you achieve your goal.
Conclusion
It is important to lobby for stronger allergen labeling legislation in order to ensure food safety for people with allergies. This also promotes transparency within the food industry to benefit consumers. We can make a collective difference by educating others and ourselves, communicating our concerns with relevant parties and joining forces to advocate groups. Every voice counts in this fight, and we can all make a difference together.
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