Process Control

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Harmonization of precautionary allergen labeling (PAL) requires the acceptance of reference doses for priority allergens. A new study found that PAL based on specific FAO/WHO-recommended thresholds would only elicit mild to moderate reactions in a small proportion of the allergic population.

This article discusses Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) programs and how the federal government is responding to state activity on EPR, as well as the food safety aspects of EPR packaging program requirements. 

This article looks at the use of UV-C light in combination with hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) to disinfect packages in the extended shelf life of milk and plant-based products.

A paper authored by experts associated with ILSI Europe asserts that global food safety would benefit from the harmonization of risk assessment protocols for food contact materials used by different regulatory bodies, and suggests a path forward for working toward harmonization.

This article discusses water quality considerations for food and beverage processing, sanitation, and other facility operations.

The updated Fifth Edition of FDA’s Food Allergen Q&A Guidance has been published in a searchable webpage format. Revisions include the addition of sesame as a major food allergen, as well as the removal of some tree nuts, including coconut, from the list of major food allergens.

To improve upon the commonly used precautionary, hazards-based approach to allergen labeling, FAO and WHO have developed a scientific approach to food allergen labeling based on actual risk, such as the likelihood and severity of an allergic reaction occurring.

Trustwell has added Canadian Front-of-Pack labeling capabilities to its Genesis Foods software to help food producers ensure compliance with new regulations.

The U.S. Treasury Department’s Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) has proposed a rule that would require mandatory labeling on alcoholic beverages for the “Big 9” food allergens. The proposed rule is open for comment until April 17, 2025.

According to a pre-publication version of a study conducted by Cornell University and backed by FDA, aging raw milk cheese may not be effective at eliminating the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza H5N1 virus. However, adequate heat treating or pH 5.0 conditions could be effective.