Common Allergens

Food allergies can be serious and life-threatening. It is important to be aware of the most common allergens and how to avoid them. Here is a list of the most common allergens:

• Milk
• Eggs
• Fish
• Shellfish
• Tree nuts
• Peanuts
• Wheat
• Soy

Cross-Contamination

It is important to be aware of the potential for cross-contamination when preparing food. Cross-contamination occurs when an allergen is transferred from one food to another. This can happen when food is prepared on the same surface, stored in the same container, or cooked in the same oil. To avoid cross-contamination, it is important to use separate utensils, surfaces, and containers for each allergen.

Labeling

It is important to read labels carefully to identify potential allergens. Food labels must list the presence of any of the eight major allergens. If a food contains an allergen, it must be listed in the ingredients list. It is also important to be aware of potential allergens in food additives, such as preservatives, flavorings, and colorings.