Sesame seems to be on the Allergen Labeling Path.
Sesame #9 top allergen could very well be in our future.
In other FDA news, members of the Senate approached the Food and Drug Administration last month with a proposal to expand the number of allergens that are legally required to be labeled on all retail food ingredient statements. The main focus of the proposal encouraged the addition of sesame to the list of allergens that fall under the regulation of the Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act of 2004 (FALCPA). FALCPA initiated the mandatory labeling of the top eight allergens, but there are hundreds of other food proteins that can elicit an allergic reaction.
Many ingredients can be listed in unfamiliar terms, which is one reason behind the FDA’s mandatory labeling of the top eight allergens. The Senate noted the example of sesame seeds being disguised as “tahini” or “gingerly” in ingredient lists
A movement like this reminds us that there are allergens that extend beyond the bold text of an ingredient list or contains statement. Be cautious when approaching food allergies, even less common ones, and always check labels before serving a guest with special dietary needs. This can be a game changer to those accommodating a sesame allergy in your food service establishment. AllerTrain can show you how!
