Back to Search Start Over

Food allergy risks and dining industry – an assessment and a path forward

Authors :
Gabriel A. Stankovich
Christopher M. Warren
Ruchi Gupta
Sayantani B. Sindher
R. Sharon Chinthrajah
Kari C. Nadeau
Source :
Frontiers in Allergy, Vol 4 (2023)
Publication Year :
2023
Publisher :
Frontiers Media S.A., 2023.

Abstract

Food allergies have increased in prevalence over the last few decades and continue to grow. Consumption of even trace amounts of common foods can cause a rapid allergic reaction (generally within minutes) which can be mild to severe to even life-threatening. Eating at restaurants poses a risk of allergic reactions for those with food allergies due to inadequate, inconsistent labeling of allergens in foods. Here, we review food labeling rules and practices in the restaurant industry and compare and contrast it with food labeling for prepackaged foods. We review global and United States trends, and provide a brief historical overview. The paper describes the key legal and economic motivations behind restaurant food labeling. Next, we describe novel risk-driven policies and new biotechnologies that have the potential to change food labeling practices worldwide. Finally, we outline desirable federal regulations and voluntary information disclosures that would positively impact the public health aspects of restaurant food labeling and improve the quality of life for people with severe food allergies.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
26736101
Volume :
4
Database :
Directory of Open Access Journals
Journal :
Frontiers in Allergy
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
edsdoj.7fe05727e4f6464e99822efeddeb138b
Document Type :
article
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.3389/falgy.2023.1060932