Commentary on Japanese Guideline for Food Allergy 2021, Chapter 17: "Allergen labelling"

Abstract

Physicians who treat patients with food allergy should understand the allergy labeling system and provide guidance and support to the patient and family. Labeling of foods containing allergens is regulated by the Food Labeling Act, administered by the Consumer Affairs Agency. Eight specific raw materials (shrimp, crab, walnut, wheat, buckwheat, egg, milk, and peanut) are required to be labeled as allergenic foods based on number and case severity. In addition, 20 materials equivalent to specified raw materials are recommended for labeling. Labeling requirements apply only to containerized and packaged processed foods, and do not apply to eating-out industry and home meal services, so caution should be exercised when consuming such foods.