Allergen Bureau Launches Assessing Agricultural Cross-Contact Guide for Industry
The Allergen Bureau has launched its new “Assessing Agricultural Cross-Contact 2022” guide, which aims to assist agrifood businesses in mitigating allergen cross-contamination. In addition to the guide, the Allergen Bureau’s Sampling and Testing working group has developed a questionnaire that industry can use to determine the level of risk that may be associated with raw materials, as well as learn how the development of sampling plans can be guided by risk and how facilities can discern the presence and prevalence of allergen cross-contact.
Identifying the allergens present in foods and ingredients can be complex, requiring consultation with suppliers and obtaining detailed raw material specifications. By ensuring that all allergens, including those that are unexpected, are identified and included in the product risk assessment, industry can meet regulatory requirements, mitigate the risk of allergen recalls and withdrawals, and provide important information to consumers with food allergies.