Health Canada Reinforces the Importance of Food Allergy Awareness — recall 49260

Reported risk: Health Canada is reminding Canadians of the importance of allergy awareness. For those individuals with food allergies, severe allergic reactions can occur quickly and without warning. In fact, some can be life-threatening for people of all ages, particularly children. It is estimated, based on clinically documented cases, that approximately 1.8 million Canadians may be affected by food allergies. Some studies indicate that these numbers are increasing, especially among children. Peanuts, tree nuts, sesame seeds, soy, seafood, wheat, eggs, milk, mustard and sulphites are the food allergens most commonly associated with severe allergic reactions in Canada. When someone ingests even a tiny amount of an allergen the symptoms of a reaction may develop quickly and become very serious. The most dangerous type of allergic reaction is called anaphylaxis. Symptoms of anaphylaxis include breathing difficulties or a drop in blood pressure with shock, which may result in loss of consciousness, and even death. It is always important to read food labels if you are affected by food allergies. Canada's new food allergen labelling regulation came into force on August 1, 2012. They provide clearer ingredient labels so that consumers can better avoid foods that contain an ingredient to which they are allergic or sensitive. Health Canada has also refined its definition of gluten free, which will increase food choices available to Canadians living with celiac disease.