Statement of the Hon. Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) on the Passage of "Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act of 2004

Statement of the Hon. Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) on the Passage of "Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act of 2004"

U.S. Representative Rosa L. DeLauro today issued the following statement on the passage of amendments to the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act - "the Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act of 2004." DeLauro was an original co-sponsor of the legislation to protect individuals with food allergies in both the 107th and 108th Congresses.

This bill requires that food statement on labels list in everyday language what, if any, of the eight major food allergens, or their by-products, are contained in the food product. These potential allergenic foods are: peanuts, tree nuts, fish, Crustacean shellfish, eggs, milk, soy and wheat. If these substances are in "flavorings and additives", even in small quantities, they must be revealed as well. FDA is also required to study and propose solutions to address the problem of unintentional contamination of foods during production, and to study the issue of appropriate labeling for "gluten-free" food and its labeling.

The House considered a bill already passed by the Senate, and therefore, it only requires the signature of the President. Her statement is below:

I am very pleased that consumers will soon know with certainty what allergens are in their food products. Many of my constituents have allergies to eggs, peanuts, and other common foods that could be fatal if ingested-which is why it is so important that people have full information regarding potential allergens in foods. This legislation has been needed for some time.

Now consumers won't have to wonder what is in a labeled food product, they can protect themselves from exposure to potentially deadly allergens just by reading the label at the store or in the kitchen.

I urge the President to sign the bill as soon as possible.