Food allergies and intolerances pose significant challenges for consumers, food manufacturers, and regulatory authorities. Despite affecting a relatively small portion of the population, the impact on human health can be severe. This is why organizations like EFSA and FDA mandate proper allergen labeling in food products to mitigate health risks. Undeclared allergens are a leading cause of food product recalls in the EU and the USA.
Undeclared (on label) or unexpected allergens (cross-contamination) present a major threat to food product’s safety. Adequate control of allergens by operators is crucial to:
- Protect consumers
- Comply with regulation
- Obtain certification such as IFS or BRC
- Reduce costs related to incorrect testing results
- Avoid preventive labeling, thereby enhancing brand image
- Protect brand from the risks and damages associated with product recalls
Effective Allergen Management
Food manufacturers need to conduct thorough risk assessments, utilize reliable testing services, and employ knowledgeable experts in national and international allergen regulations.
Producers, manufacturers, packers and distributors of food products or ingredients have the obligation to declare:
any ingredient or processing aid listed in Annex II or derived from a substance or product listed in Annex II causing allergies or intolerances used in the manufacture or preparation of food and still present in the finished product, even if in an altered form.
Regulation EU 1169/2011
Common Allergens & Intolerances
- Eggs, milk, soy, fish, peanuts, nuts, shellfish, crustaceans, gluten, and lactose are common allergens.
- The prevalence of intolerances to gluten and lactose is on the rise.
Analytical Capabilities
Importance of Analytical Assessment in Allergen Management
Accurate and reliable analytical assessment of allergens is crucial for various purposes, including:
- Monitoring plans
- Verification of food safety programs
- Process validation
- Raw material substitution
- Environmental sample control
A Comprehensive Analytical Service on Allergens
Mérieux NutriSciences offers qualitative and quantitative testing methods, utilizing cutting-edge technologies such as PCR, ELISA, and LC-MS/MS. Regular Ring and Proficiency Tests guarantee the highest level of precision when conducting analytical determinations.
Mérieux NutriSciences proposes accredited tests, with ongoing efforts to extend accreditation to additional targets and matrices. The portfolio covers allergen analysis in food, surfaces, and environmental samples (accreditation ISO17025).
Allergen Management Solutions
Thanks to our portfolio of testing technologies and solutions, we support our customers with dedicated services for consistent food allergens management:
We are continually expanding the scope of our accredited tests, and improving our quality system (calibration, proficiency tests, internal and crossed-reference quality controls) to provide our customers with the most accurate and reliable service.
Let’s work together on allergen management!
