Food allergies and allergens in Lebanon: Characterization and perceptions toward labeling

Elrahi, Berna; Mehanna, Zeina; Haidar, Suzan; Serhan, Mireille; Hassan, Hussein F.

doi:10.1016/j.waojou.2023.100743

Cited by 6 publications

(2 citation statements)

References 33 publications

(53 reference statements)

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“…In some countries, like Argentina, PAL is prohibited, while in others, steps have been taken to enforce labelling of UAP above a detectable level, typically set at 10 ppm, as seen in Japan [8,11]. The lack of clarity surrounding PAL often leads consumers to view it as a generic precaution rather than an accurate reflection of the health risks posed by UAP [12]. This misunderstanding encourages risky behaviours, as individuals may ignore PAL statements based on previous experiences of consuming PAL-labelled products without adverse effects [13].…”

Section: Precautionary Allergen Labellingmentioning

confidence: 99%

Perspectives in precautionary allergen labelling of prepackaged foods after the FAO/WHO consultation

Fierro,

Mazzuca,

Urbani

et al. 2024

Current Opinion in Allergy &Amp; Clinical Immunology

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Purpose of review The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of the perspectives regarding precautionary allergen labelling (PAL) of prepackaged foods following the consultation conducted by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the WHO. Recent findings The FAO/WHO consultation provided a comprehensive assessment of the current status and practices of PAL implementation worldwide. One of the key findings highlighted by the Expert Committee was the need for improvement in existing PAL systems. It was noted that many countries lacked uniformity in PAL practices, leading to inconsistencies in labelling and potentially misleading information for consumers. Furthermore, the consultation emphasized the importance of PAL being risk-based, taking into account both the amount and frequency of unintended allergen presence (UAP) in food products. Summary The FAO/WHO consultation shed light on various perspectives and challenges associated with PAL of prepackaged foods. Key findings emphasized the need for improvement in existing PAL systems, including the adoption of a risk-based approach, standardized regulations, and enhanced transparency. Moving forward, collaborative efforts between regulatory agencies, food manufacturers, and consumer advocacy groups will be essential in developing effective PAL strategies that prioritize consumer safety and well being.

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Section: Precautionary Allergen Labellingmentioning

confidence: 99%

Perspectives in precautionary allergen labelling of prepackaged foods after the FAO/WHO consultation

Fierro,

Mazzuca,

Urbani

et al. 2024

Current Opinion in Allergy &Amp; Clinical Immunology

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“…The absence of a unified international regulation generates confusion in consumer choices [34] (Fig. 1).…”

Section: The Challenges and Opportunities Of Precautionary Allergen L...mentioning

confidence: 99%

Food-labeling issues for severe food-allergic consumers

Dinardo

Fierro

Giudice

et al. 2023

Current Opinion in Allergy &Amp; Clinical Immunology

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Purpose of reviewFood label represent the primary and only source of information before consuming a food product. Deputy government agencies on five continents require allergenic ingredients to be declared when used in prepackaged foods to assist patients in identifying allergenic foods and to help them to choose wisely. Unfortunately, the mandatory allergen list and legislation regarding food labels and reference doses is not uniform and varies by country. This may add difficulties to food-allergic patients, especially those with severe food allergy. Recent findingsA new definition of food allergy severity (the DEFASE grid, developed by the World Allergy Organization), aims to assist clinicians in the identification of the at-risk patients. The FASTER ACT and Natasha's Laws has made important improvements such as the entry of sesame as a major allergen in the United States, and increased evidence of allergens on the food label within prepackaged for direct sale (PPDS) in the UK. The recent introduction of Vital 3.0 brought important new features such as an updated reference doses for many foods. SummaryCurrently, there are still considerable differences regarding food labels in different countries. Growing public and scientific attention to the problem promises to increase the food safety for allergens. Among the next improvements, we expect a reconsideration of the food reference doses, a harmonization of the food oral challenge process, and the promulgation of regulatory rules for the precautionary labeling.

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