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JACI Highlights - August 2009Food allergy labeling ambiguities are prevalent despite current labeling lawsUS labeling laws require plain English-language disclosure of milk, egg, wheat, soy, peanut, tree nut, fish, and crustacean shellfish ingredients. However, the laws do not regulate advisory labeling (eg, “may contain”), which studies have shown are increasingly ignored by food-allergic consumers. In a study published in the August 2009 issue of The Journal of Allergy & Clinical Immunology, Pieretti et al. appraised current allergen labeling practices. They evaluated 20,241 unique supermarket products, noting that overall 17% had advisory labels, with 25 different terms used. The highest rates (>40%) of advisory statements were found in convenience products such as chocolate candies, cookies and bake mixes. The authors surmised that proliferation of advisory labeling may account for decreased consumer adherence to these warnings. A subsample of 744 products was analyzed for labeling details, and additional ambiguities included frequent use of nonspecific terms (eg, natural flavors and spices) on 65% of products, unclear sources of soy (protein versus lecithin), and simultaneous disclosure of “contains” and “may contain” for the same allergen. The authors argue that despite improved labeling laws, multiple labeling ambiguities persist and these present challenges for food-allergic consumers. Many of the ambiguities could be addressed by additional legislation. Allergists have an important role in continuing to educate patients about food labeling. “Audit of Manufactured Products: Use of Allergen Advisory Labels and Identification of Labeling Ambiguities” by Pieretti et al. (JACI August 2009 Volume 124 No. 2). |
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