What is the legal requirement for food allergens in food labeling?

The legal requirement for food allergens in food labeling stipulates that all major food allergens must be clearly identified on product labels. This requirement is crucial for protecting consumers, particularly those who have food allergies, as even trace amounts of allergens can lead to severe reactions. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) mandates that the eight major allergens—milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, and soybeans—are declared, often in a highlighted format or separate statement, to ensure that individuals with allergies can make informed choices about the food they consume. This clear identification helps prevent allergic reactions and promotes food safety by ensuring transparency in labeling.

The other options fail to encompass the full legal requirements: merely mentioning common allergens does not cover the full scope of what is mandated, and stating that all allergens must be mentioned in the ingredients section does not ensure sufficient visibility for individuals who need to quickly identify allergens. As for the claim that food labels do not need to mention allergens, it goes against the essential regulatory framework designed to protect public health.