Food allergies are a growing health concern in the United States and often food labels are people’s only line of defense. But when food is not labeled properly it can have some serious health consequences. Each year some 90,000 people end up in the emergency room after having a severe food allergy. The most recent recall is for Crispy Chicken with Almonds sold exclusively at Walmart because it may contain shrimp.
Widespread Distribution
Mountain View Packaging issued the recall for the frozen entrée due to the potential risk for consumers that may have shellfish allergies. Those with a high sensitivity to shellfish can experience a life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume this product. The frozen dishes were labeled as InnovAsian Crispy Chicken with Almonds. They were distributed to retailers in 29 states, including Illinois. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service says the company took the frozen dish from shelves but it is concerned that people may still have the product in their freezers.
Under Federal Law Shellfish is a Food Allergen
Under the Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act passed by Congress, eight food allergens are directly linked to 90 percent of food allergies and severe allergic reactions in the country. The immune system mistakenly responds to certain foods as if they were harmful. Shellfish is one of those known food allergens. If you are allergic to shellfish, you may develop hives or wheeze, or have more serious symptoms. As a result, federal law requires that all packaging be clearly labeled and that the presence of any of the following allergens in food products be declared. Additional food allergens include the following:
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