How to Read Food Labels for Common Allergens

Decoding food labels can be tricky, but it's essential for managing food allergies. This guide will help you identify hidden allergens and make safe choices when shopping for your family. Let's dive in and make label reading a breeze! 

The Basics of Food Labeling 

Understanding food labels is your first line of defense in protecting your child from allergens. The Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act (FALCPA) requires that nine major food allergens be clearly listed on packaged foods. These allergens are milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, soy, and now sesame, effective January 1, 2023, due to the FASTER Act  (FDA). 

Look for Statements Like: 

• "Contains [allergen]" 

• "May contain [allergen]" 

• "Processed in a facility that also processes [allergen]" 

Hidden Allergens: What to Watch For 

Some allergens can be hidden in ingredients with unfamiliar names. Here’s a quick guide to help you spot them: 

• Milk: Casein, whey, lactalbumin 

• Eggs: Albumin, globulin, lysozyme 

• Fish: Surimi, isinglass 

• Shellfish: Krill, prawn 

• Tree Nuts: Nut butters, marzipan, praliné 

• Peanuts: Arachis oil, groundnuts 

• Wheat: Semolina, spelt, triticale 

• Soy: Edamame, hydrolyzed vegetable protein, miso 

• Sesame: Tahini, gomashio 

For more detailed information, check out the resources at Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE). 

Reading Between the Lines 

Labels might not always be straightforward. Here are some tips to help you read between the lines: 

• Allergen Advisory Statements: Phrases like "may contain" or "produced in a facility" indicate potential cross-contamination risks. While these warnings aren't required by law, they should be taken seriously. 

• Ingredient Lists: Ingredients are listed in descending order by weight. Pay close attention to the first few ingredients, as they make up most of the product. 

• Scientific Names: Some ingredients might be listed by their scientific names. For example, casein (a milk protein) or albumin (an egg protein). Familiarize yourself with these terms to avoid hidden allergens. 

Safe Shopping Tips 

To make shopping easier and safer, consider these tips: 

• Stick to Trusted Brands: Once you find brands that clearly label allergens and maintain safe manufacturing processes, stick with them. 

• Contact Manufacturers: If you’re unsure about an ingredient or labeling, don’t hesitate to contact the manufacturer for clarification. 

• Use Allergy Friendly Apps: Apps like Spokin and AllergyEats can help you find safe products and avoid allergens. 

Quick Tips for Busy Parents 

1. Double-Check Every Time: Even if a product was safe before, always check the label as ingredients and manufacturing processes can change. 

1. Teach Your Kids: As your child grows, involve them in reading labels and understanding their allergies. This builds their confidence and independence. 

1. Plan Ahead: Create a list of safe foods and brands to streamline your shopping trips. 

Bringing It All Together 

Reading food labels is a vital skill for managing food allergies and ensuring your child's safety. By understanding how to spot hidden allergens and being vigilant about label changes, you can make informed choices that keep your family safe. Remember, you're not alone in this—resources like FARE and Spokin are here to support you every step of the way. 

Stay safe and happy shopping!