Failure to declare the presence of a major food allergen on the label of a food is a leading cause of food recalls. While the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has provided guidance to help industry understand how and when to declare the presence of allergens, the large number of allergen labeling-related recalls is an indication of ongoing problems. An in-depth review of allergen labeling legislation and guidelines in the U.S. will be given to help clarify how such recalls can be avoided. We know that the allergen world is not static. There is an ongoing evolution of both the number and types of allergens as well as the methodology with which these allergens are detected and measured. An overview of various allergen detection and measurement technologies for both environmental and finished goods testing will be presented. Understanding that an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, the final presentation will focus on allergen control and contamination prevention. Best practices to control allergens, monitor persistence of allergens in manufacturing areas and effectively document these measures will be discussed.

Presentations