FDA Allergen List

According to the FDA, approximately 5 percent of infants and children and 2 percent of adults have food allergies. Many of these food allergies are serious and contact with an allergen causes anaphylactic shock for many people. The FDA mandates that food manufacturers list the ingredients and allergens in their foods so that consumers can avoid foods that may cause a problem.

Allergens

• According to the FDA, eight major foods account for over 90 percent of food allergies. They are soybeans, wheat, tree nuts, peanuts, fish, milk, eggs and shellfish.

Labels

• The FDA requires food manufacturers to print allergy information on their food labels. The label must specify the type of allergen that the food contains plus any allergens contained in a food additive, coloring, or flavoring.

Cross-Contamination

• Food manufacturers are not required to list foods that may come in contact with allergens during the growing or manufacturing process. Some manufacturers choose to list possible sources of cross-contamination.

Cautions

• If you are purchasing food for a person with an allergy you will need to read food labels carefully. Always double check the food label before you purchase or use an ingredient and contact the manufacturer of the food if you are still unsure if it is safe.