The FDA has recently updated the list of the top food allergens, now known as "The Big 9". Added earlier this year, the newest addition to the list is Sesame Seeds.
The current "Big 9" list includes the following allergens: peanuts, sesame, shellfish, tree nuts, fish, milk, soy, eggs, and grains.
Symptoms of food allergies can vary from minor skin irritation to intestinal discomfort all the way to the extreme end of breathing concerns and life threatening symptoms.
As you are storing and distributing food at your facility it is important to be aware of these allergens that may affect your clients. You may not be aware of the specific allergens that are affecting all your clients, especially if your clients are anonymous or you do not have the opportunity to see them face to face and talk about their needs and concerns. So, keeping certain items aside or in a specific area will help to reduce contamination. If there are any food spills or open packaging, it is important to clean affected containers or wipe things down as not to spread allergens from touch. If you choose to store non-allergens and allergens on the same shelving units, the foods that contain allergens should be stored on the lowest shelf.
We recommend you take the time to display signage about the big 9 allergens and make your volunteers and team aware of them. There is also a lot of information online about these food allergens and sorting food safely. We encourage you to do your research on this topic and all other topics pertaining to food safety to ensure you are doing your part to reduce food born illness and contamination.
Please click here to see the FDA's page on food labeling and food allergies.
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