Analytical testing as a tool for the enforcement of future regulatory thresholds for food allergens

Food allergen labeling regulations have been implemented in several countries since 2006. Currently, experts are still discussing the introduction of thresholds or action levels, which should lead to the reduction of the widespread use of advisory statements (e.g., "may contain") for the benefit of the allergic consumer. However, the establishment of threshold requires supporting analytical methodologies to enforce and comply with the regulations. This article discusses the possibilities and limitations of existing and emerging methodologies for the purpose of enabling compliance with and enforcement of allergen action levels.