July 16, 2014 - Ottawa, ON - Canadian Food Inspection Agency
As part of the Canadian Food Inspection Agency's (CFIA) routine testing of various food products, a study released today found 95 per cent of foods typically consumed by children had no detectable levels of undeclared priority allergens and gluten. A total of 304 samples were tested for undeclared soy, egg, milk, peanuts, almonds, hazelnuts, sesame and gluten.
A total of 15 samples of pre-packaged foods including baked goods, cookies, granola bars and puddings had detectable levels of undeclared allergens and gluten. All positive results were evaluated for their potential risk. The CFIA recalled three products based on their potential risk to consumers. The CFIA works closely with industry to promote compliance and provides various tools for industry, such as the industry labelling tool, to help them ensure that their food labels meet all the regulatory requirements.
Food allergies can affect people of all ages. However, they tend to occur more frequently in children. Avoiding an allergen is the only effective way to prevent allergic reactions. Reading product labels carefully is one important way to protect yourself. You can also sign up to receive allergy alerts from the CFIA at www.inspection.gc.ca/recalls.
Michael Bolkenius
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Health
613-957-0200
Media Relations
Canadian Food Inspection Agency
613-773-6600
