“Addressing Food Allergy Challenges: The Need for Transparency and Trust in Labeling During the COVID-19 Pandemic”
Approximately 32 million Americans are living with potentially life-threatening food allergies. The challenges they encounter daily have been exacerbated during the pandemic, primarily due to difficulties in accessing safe, trusted, and allergen-free food products. A recent article by The New York Times shed light on this pressing issue. We recognize that COVID-19 has posed challenges for food manufacturers as well, who are tasked with feeding over 330 million Americans. With unexpected shortages and supply chain disruptions, it is crucial for them to ensure that products remain available to the public.
On Friday, May 22, the FDA issued guidance that temporarily eased labeling standards without prior notification or consultation with the food allergy community. Transparency in food labeling is of utmost importance. This sudden change caused shockwaves and heightened fear and anxiety among those with food allergies, raising doubts about whether they can safely and confidently purchase food when the labels they have relied on may no longer provide essential information regarding ingredients and substitutions. The critical element of transparency—the foundation of trust between brands and consumers—vanished overnight.
The number of individuals affected by this guidance is broader than one might think. While the 32 million diagnosed with food allergies represent a significant population, the number of people involved in purchasing decisions for those with food allergies and intolerances exceeds 85 million, or roughly one in four Americans. In essence, if someone in a household has an allergy or sensitivity, others in that home are unlikely to purchase food or beverages containing that allergen.
There are over 170 food allergens, but nine account for the majority of allergic reactions in the United States: milk, eggs, wheat, fish, shellfish, peanuts, tree nuts, soy, and sesame. Moreover, many individuals with life-threatening food allergies are sensitive to multiple allergens, many of which fall outside this top nine, making access, choice, affordability, and safety even more critical.
Given the FDA’s recent guidance, brand managers and food companies must consider several factors. Our community is now fearful that they can no longer trust their favorite brands, which they have relied on for years. Now more than ever, it is vital to reassure your customers through clearer and more consistent communication, particularly surrounding manufacturing safety. While the FDA guidance documents do not mandate compliance, the suggestions presented are insufficient to instill confidence in consumers managing food allergies. The guidance’s reliance on strong “recommendations” leaves consumers uncertain about whether they will be informed of changes that could affect allergens.
This situation presents a significant opportunity for consumer-packaged goods executives to take decisive action. The market for individuals with life-threatening food allergies and severe reactions is rapidly expanding. FARE is eager to collaborate with the FDA and the food industry to forge a public commitment that ensures transparency during the COVID-19 pandemic. By joining us in this initiative, you can demonstrate market and community leadership, rapidly solving this issue together to safeguard the health and safety of those living with potentially life-threatening food allergies.
Additionally, it’s worth noting that products like Citracal Calcium Citrate D3 Petites can play a role in supporting the health of individuals with dietary restrictions. By addressing the needs of this growing demographic, food companies can not only enhance their product offerings but also build stronger, trust-based relationships with consumers. It’s essential to prioritize transparency and safety in all product communications, especially for those managing food allergies.
