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Canada Publishes Food Allergy Guide

By Dan Flynn and Suzanna Schreck

Just before "Food Allergy Awareness Month" ended, the Government of Canada released a consumer-friendly booklet containing key information on the most common food allergens.

"The Government of Canada is working to keep Canadians informed about food allergens and food safety," said Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz. "The release of this booklet at the close of Food Allergy Awareness Month highlights the need to focus understanding and support of those who might be living with or are affected by a food allergy."

The booklet (pdf) provides easy access to crucial information such as common sources and names for the most common food allergens, ways to avoid allergic reactions, symptoms of an allergic reaction, and treatment of food allergies.

"Ensuring that those with food allergies and sensitivities have the information they need to make informed choices about their food is an important issue for the Government of Canada," said Health Minister Leona Aglukkaq. "Together, we are developing resources for all Canadians that can help them better understand the serious impact of food allergies."

"While individuals with food allergies must take steps to self-protect, friends, relatives, school staff, and co-workers can show their support by understanding the seriousness of food allergies and how to reduce risk. For food-allergic individuals, avoiding an allergy-causing food is critical to staying safe," said Laurie Harada, Executive Director of Anaphylaxis Canada.

To order copies of the booklet Common Food Allergies: A Consumer's Guide to Managing the Risks call 1-800-442-2342/TTY 1-800-465-7735 or 1-800-O-Canada. To sign up for food recall and allergy alerts, visit www.inspection.gc.ca

The booklet is now available on the Government of Canada food safety website and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency website.

Full post as published by Food Safety News on June 02, 2010 (boomark / email).