Master Allergen Labeling: Comply with FALCPA & FASTER Act
Navigating allergen labeling is crucial for CPG brands. This guide simplifies FALCPA and FASTER Act requirements, helping you ensure compliant product labels and protect consumers. Learn practical steps to avoid recalls and build trust.
- ✓ Identify all 9 major food allergens.
- ✓ Clearly declare allergens on all labels.
- ✓ Implement robust allergen traceability.
Understand Major Food Allergens
The FASTER Act expanded the "major food allergen" list to include sesame, bringing the total to nine. Brands must clearly declare these allergens on labels, either in the ingredient list or immediately following it. Accurate identification and segregation throughout your supply chain are paramount to prevent cross-contamination and ensure compliance.
Mastering Labeling Formats
FALCPA mandates clear allergen declarations. Options include listing the allergen in parentheses after the ingredient (e.g., "whey (milk)") or using a "Contains" statement immediately after the ingredient list (e.g., "Contains: Milk, Wheat, Soy"). Consistency across all product lines and packaging types is vital for consumer clarity and regulatory adherence.
Traceability and Supply Chain Control
Effective allergen management extends beyond labeling. Implement robust lot traceability systems to track allergen-containing ingredients from supplier to finished product. This includes verifying supplier declarations, managing co-packer processes, and conducting regular audits. Such systems are critical for swift recall management and demonstrating due diligence to regulators.
The FASTER Act's Impact
Beyond adding sesame, the FASTER Act emphasizes the importance of allergen management plans. It encourages best practices for preventing cross-contact and managing recalls. CPG brands should review their internal procedures, update training, and leverage technology like Guidance to ensure their operational processes fully support these enhanced regulatory expectations.
Put This Into Practice with Guidance
Guidance automates the workflows behind this guide — built specifically for CPG brands.
Apply as a Design Partner →Frequently Asked Questions
What are the 9 major food allergens?
The 9 major food allergens are milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, soy, wheat, fish, shellfish, and sesame. These require specific declaration on food labels.
How does cross-contamination affect labeling?
If cross-contamination cannot be prevented despite good manufacturing practices, advisory statements like "May Contain" are used. However, these do not replace mandatory allergen declarations.
Does FASTER Act apply to all CPG products?
The FASTER Act applies to all food products regulated by the FDA. This includes most CPG food and beverage items sold in the U.S., requiring compliance with its allergen provisions.