Steps to Read Food Labels for Allergens

1. Start with the Ingredient List

  • Look for the Top 9 allergens (milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, soy, wheat, fish, shellfish, sesame).
  • Check for hidden names (e.g., casein for milk, albumin for egg).

2. Check the “Contains” Statement

  • Most packaged foods include a “Contains:” section listing major allergens in plain language.

3. Look for Advisory Statements

  • Warnings like “May contain” or “Processed in a facility that also handles…” indicate possible cross-contact.

4. Understand Alternate Names

  • Example: Whey = milk protein, Semolina = wheat, Tahini = sesame.

5. Review for Additives and Flavorings

  • Terms like natural flavors or spices can sometimes hide allergens—contact the manufacturer if unclear.

6. Check Every Time

  • Ingredients can change without notice, so always read the label, even for familiar products.

7. Use Allergen-Safe Apps

  • Tools like FARE’s Food Allergy Alerts or barcode scanners can help verify products.

Create Safe Zone

Cross-Contamination Prevention Tips

1. Separate Utensils and Cookware

2. Clean Thoroughly

3. Store Foods Safely

4. Avoid Shared Fryers and Oils

5. Label Everything

6. Use Separate Towels and Cloths

7. Educating Everyone

8. Check Packaged Foods

Food Safety Allergy

Sanitize

  • Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after handling food.
  • Clean all surfaces, utensils, and chopping boards with hot, soapy water.
  • Use separate cleaning clothes for allergen-containing foods.

Segregate

  • Use separate cutting boards and knives for allergen-free foods.
  • Store allergen-containing foods in sealed containers away from allergen-free items.
  • Label containers clearly to avoid mix-ups.

Heat Thoroughly

  • Cook allergen-free foods first before allergen-containing foods.
  • Use a clean thermometer to check safe cooking temperatures.
  • Avoid tasting with utensils that have touched allergen-containing foods.

Refrigerate

  • Keep allergen-free foods in separate, labeled sections of the fridge.
  • Cover all dishes tightly to prevent accidental spills or drips.
  • Regularly clean refrigerator shelves to remove allergen residues.

Apps and Tools to Track Allergens

Soosee – Allergy, Vegan, Gluten

AllergyEats

Food Scan Genius

Spokin

Allergy Force

Open Food Facts