Food allergies are a serious public health concern—impacting millions of Americans and posing life-threatening risks if mishandled. The FDA regulates the declaration of major food allergens to protect consumers, enforce accurate food labeling, and support safe practices in food preparation and service.
Whether you're a food handler, manager, or manufacturer, understanding your role in allergen safety is essential. This guide outlines the major allergens, labeling expectations, and links to critical FDA resources.
What You'll Find
For Everyone
Major Food Allergens – The FDA currently recognizes nine major allergens: milk, eggs, fish, crustacean shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, soybeans, and sesame (added in 2023 under the FASTER Act). Available topics on the site.
🔹 Symptoms of Allergic Reactions – Reactions can range from mild hives to life-threatening anaphylaxis. Knowing the signs saves lives.
🔹 Consumer Guidance – Tips for reading labels, avoiding cross-contact, and responding to exposure.
For Food Operators & Staff
🔹 Labeling Requirements – FDA regulations require that major allergens be clearly identified on ingredient labels, either in parentheses after the ingredient or in a "Contains" statement.
🔹 Cross-Contact Prevention – Guidelines for separating allergenic and non-allergenic foods during storage, prep, and service.
🔹 Employee Training – Emphasize communication with customers, use of allergen-safe prep areas, and knowing what’s in every dish.
🔹 Response Readiness – Ensure staff know how to respond in the event of an allergic reaction, including when and how to use an epinephrine auto-injector (if available).
More Information
FDA Food Allergies Overview
Visit the official FDA allergen guidance
Additional resources:
Questions? Contact the FDA Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition (CFSAN):
Phone: 1-888-SAFEFOOD (1-888-723-3366)
Hours: 10 AM – 4 PM ET (Mon–Fri)
Why This Matters
One mistake with allergens can cost a life—and a business. From menu labeling to kitchen protocols, allergen awareness is a vital part of your food safety strategy. It also speaks volumes to customers with dietary restrictions who are placing their trust in you every time they dine.
With rising rates of food allergies—especially among children—your diligence can make all the difference.
How Certivance Can Help
At Certivance, we help you move from awareness to action. Our allergen safety tools include:
Allergen-specific training materials
Checklists and posters for allergen control
Custom menu labeling reviews
Ongoing support to meet FDA and local regulations
Explore our allergen safety resources or contact us for customized compliance support.