States Taking Lead in Allergen Labeling.

While uncertainty exists about additional federal regulations to control allergens in food, some changes in current regulations are clearly needed, a state official said Nov. 8. "It remains to be seen if we need mandatory regulations or not," according to Dan Sowards, director of the Manufactured Foods Division of the Texas Department of Health.

However, some provisions in current law should be changed, he said at a workshop on managing food allergens sponsored by the Association of Food and Drug Officials. For example, a current exemption authorized under the Nutrition Labeling and Education Act of 1990 should be changed, Sowards said.

Under NLEA, which amends the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, companies are required to disclose the eight major allergens on labels. Spices, flavors, colors, and incidental additives, however, are exempt from this requirement. Some of these substances may cause allergic reactions. If mandatory requirements are issued, states would probably publish them before the federal government, according to Sowards.

Control of allergens will increasingly be a priority for state and local officials, Sowards said. State inspections for allergens will increase, and they will be focused, based on inspections' results, Sowards said. "Expect to see an increase in recalls and detention of products," he said. Sowards also said he foresees an "eventual requirement for user-friendly labels."