New Labelling Requirements for Food Allergies

In an effort to better protect Canadians with food allergies, Health Canada has introduced new labelling requirements for prepackaged foods. Canada's Food and Drug Regulations require that ingredients of food products be declared on the labels of most prepackaged foods. However the components of certain ingredients are exempt from declaration in the list of ingredients. The new regulations would require that manufacturers declare all food allergens, gluten sources and added sulphites on labels of prepackaged foods. The regulations would also detail exactly how these allergens, glutens and sulphites are to be listed on food labels.

The proposed regulatory amendments were published in the Canada Gazette, Part I on July 26, 2008 to allow for a 90-day comment period before being finalized. Health Minister Tony Clement has asked the food industry to be proactive in improving labelling of food allergens while the proposed regulations are being enacted.

Health Canada estimates that up to six percent of young children and three to four percent of adults suffer from food allergies. Nearly one per cent of the population is affected by celiac disease, a serious sensitivity to gluten.

More About Food Allergies
Food Allergy Alerts - Health Canada
Food Allergies and Intolerances - Health Canada
Food Allergens - Canadian Food Inspection Agency
Food Allergies - About.com Allergies (U.S. site)
About.com Celiac Disease (U.S. site)
Food Safety and Nutrition in Canada