The U.S. Food and Drug Administration announced updated draft guidance designed to help food facilities comply with the requirements for current good manufacturing practices (CGMPs) and preventive controls for human food. In particular, the new chapter on food allergens outlines ways to protect food from major food allergen cross-contact and ensure that the finished food is properly labeled with respect to the major food allergens.
Millions of Americans have food allergies and may experience adverse reactions to products that contain food allergens. While many allergic reactions may involve only mild symptoms, some are severe and may even be life-threatening. Earlier this year, sesame was added as the ninth major food allergen when the Food Allergy Safety, Treatment, Education, and Research (FASTER) Act became effective on January 1, 2023. This means that sesame, when present in a food, must be listed on food labels, and firms need to implement controls to minimize or prevent sesame allergen cross-contact significantly.