The 9th Major US Allergen
Sesame has been signed into law as the 9th Major US Allergen. This is the first new addition to the list since it came out in 2004. Labels need to be changed by January 1st, 2023.
FINALLY!
By definition, do we now have to control sesame for cross-contact?
By definition, do we now have to control sesame for cross-contact?
If it's part of the big 9 allergens , then yes.
I presumed so as well. Every article I'm seeing only mentions labeling, but by regulatory definition I believe it would have to be treated as an allergen. Boy, do I have my work cut out for me with this one :secret:
FINALLY!
Have you heard anything about sesame oil? Are they considering this similar to soybean oil or something we need to control for cross contact?
Huh, I'm kind of surprised they didn't just add all the additional ones Canada has that we don't.
kromNE, that exemption isn't specific to soybean, any highly refined oil containing no allergenic protein is not considered an allergen. So, it would depend on the oil itself, our current refined sesame oil is specified as allergenic from the supplier.
TimG, I think it's a matter of time, this is like opening a can of worms. Part of FARE is that the US will be monitoring prevalence of the different food allergies. It's about time!