Before you shop: food allergies and allergen labelling
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) enforces Canada's labelling laws and works with associations, distributors, food manufacturers and importers to ensure complete and appropriate labelling of all foods. The CFIA recommends that food companies establish effective allergen controls to minimize the potential for allergic reactions.
Enhanced labelling requirements for food allergen, gluten sources and sulphites came into force on August 4, 2012.
Food recalls
When the agency becomes aware of a potential serious hazard associated with a food, such as undeclared allergens, the CFIA investigates and takes all appropriate action to protect consumers, which may include a recall of the food product.
Food recalls and allergy alerts
If you are interested in receiving e-mail notifications when products are recalled, you can register on the CFIA's website.
Food allergies fact sheets
- Common food allergies and related disorders in Canada
- Safe school lunches
- Tips for avoiding common allergens in food
Reference material
- CFIA compliance and enforcement of gluten-free claims
- Food allergen labelling: Health Canada
- Food allergen program: Health Canada
- Food recalls allergy alerts
- Interactive food label
- Severe allergic reactions: Health Canada
Additional information
- Food allergens, gluten and added sulphites
- Video: Science in action: protecting people with allergies
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