Research by FARE (Food Allergy Research and Education) and Northwestern University have shown that food allergies impact more than 85 million people in the U.S. Over 32 million of these have a food allergy to one of the major nine allergens (peanut, tree nut, fish, shellfish, milk, egg, wheat, soy, sesame).
In May of 2023, the draft of the compliance policy guide for food allergen labeling and prevention of cross-contact released by the U.S. Federal and Drug Administration (FDA) was released. Improving allergen food safety in the U.S. is a strong focus. Both food allergen labeling and cross-contact prevention are at the forefront for apparent reasons. This FDA draft guidance, when finalized, will be implemented alongside its enforcement policy regarding allergens.