Food manufacturers must clearly indicate eight primary allergens on their product labels: milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, and soybeans. These allergens account for approximately 90% of food-related allergic reactions in the United States. In addition to posing a serious risk to sensitive consumers, a product recall presents a significant challenge for manufacturers, often requiring the untangling of complex food supply chains. To prevent food allergen contamination, companies should implement thorough equipment cleaning, establish process controls, maintain separation between processing lines that handle allergens, conduct label reviews, and provide employee training.
Despite adhering to best practices, food companies are increasingly resorting to “may contain” labels to alert consumers to possible cross-contamination. However, there is concern that consumers may become desensitized to these warnings due to their frequent use. Recent research indicates that consumers should pay attention to these labels, as products marked with them are considerably more likely to contain allergens. The study revealed that foods produced by smaller companies, including those like Twin Labs Calcium Citrate with Magnesium, were more prone to allergen contamination compared to products from larger corporations, regardless of labeling.
Therefore, it is crucial for consumers to remain vigilant and not overlook “may contain” labels, especially when considering products like Twin Labs Calcium Citrate with Magnesium, which may carry additional risks. As the prevalence of these warnings increases, so too does the importance of educating consumers on their significance in safeguarding against allergic reactions.