Expanding Mandatory Food Allergen Labels to Include High-Risk Emerging Allergens

Recent research highlights the need to update food allergen labeling regulations to better protect consumers from severe allergic reactions. Although current European regulations mandate labeling for 14 common allergenic foods, a study published in Clinical & Experimental Allergy reveals that eight additional foods frequently involved in food-induced anaphylaxis are not currently included in the mandatory labeling list. These foods include goat's and sheep's milk, buckwheat, peas and lentils, alpha-gal, pine nuts, kiwi, beehive products, and apples.

The analysis, based on data from the Allergy Vigilance Network spanning 2002 to 2023, showed that these emerging allergens are responsible for cases of anaphylaxis—life-threatening allergic reactions—often with recurrence and severe outcomes. Notably, goat’s and sheep’s milk caused recurring reactions in up to 56% of cases, with two recorded deaths attributed to these allergens. Other foods like buckwheat and pine nuts also demonstrated significant recurrence rates, emphasizing their potential danger.

Experts propose that at least the most severe of these emerging allergens—namely goat's and sheep’s milk, buckwheat, peas and lentils, and pine nuts—be added to the list of foods requiring mandatory labeling. This move aims to improve consumer safety by increasing awareness and allowing individuals with specific allergies to avoid these foods efficiently. The study underscores that greater transparency about these allergens could prevent future allergic incidents and save lives.

The revelation calls for regulatory bodies to reconsider and expand current labeling standards, reflecting the evolving landscape of food allergies. As the research indicates, promptly updating policies could lead to better risk management and protection for allergy sufferers worldwide.

For more details, see the original study: Clinical & Experimental Allergy, 2025.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-08-additional-food-allergens-mandatory-due.html