Analytical methods are needed for a correct management and control of potential allergen cross-contamination, as well as the reinforcement of the quality of the manufacturing and cleaning processes.

According to European regulation No 1169/2011, it is mandatory to report specific allergens present in a product.

Direct methods are recommended because they allow the detection of specific allergenic proteins, avoiding false positives, because they are able to distinguish accurately the presence of a particular allergen.

Have you ever wondered if the cleaning that you do is really effective? The answer is especially important when we talk about cross-contamination through food allergens.

The countdown to the coming into force of Regulation (EU) 1169/2011 starts. From 13^th December of this year, all commercialized food has to highlight if any allergens of mandatory mention are present in their composition. Even unpackaged food and menus offering in catering or restaurants are included in this regulation.

Food allergy involves adverse reaction of immunity system to determined foods (mostly proteins). Food allergies represent an important health problem affecting mainly children (6-8%). Symptoms can vary form mild (hives) to severe reactions such as anaphylaxis. The amount of food allergen that can trigger an allergic reaction is different in each patient and trace of allergens (little microgram) can be enough to induce a reaction. Hence, rigorous information about foods that contain allergens is very important to allow allergic people manage their diet.