Food > Labelling > Allergens

IMPORTED CHOCOLATE and the ALLERGIC CONSUMER

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) would like to advise consumers with food allergies and those caring for persons with food allergies, to exercise caution when purchasing or offering imported chocolate products as there may be a risk of undeclared allergens in the product.

The CFIA has monitored many food recalls involving imported chocolate. When the health hazard involves the presence of a food ingredient not declared on the label, these recalls are accompanied by an Allergy Alert. The undeclared food ingredient usually does not represent a hazard to the majority of consumers, however for those sensitive or allergic to the undeclared food, consuming the food could result in a serious or life-threatening reaction.

The most common undeclared allergens found in imported chocolate are peanut, tree nuts and milk protein.

Further information on foods responsible for most adverse reactions can be found in the Consumer Fact Sheet, "Labelling of Foods Causing Allergies and Sensitivities" posted on the CFIA’s web site at www.inspection.gc.ca. All public warnings and Allergy Alerts are distributed to the media and are also posted on our web site. Internet users can subscribe to receive these notices which provide specific information to assist consumers in identifying potentially hazardous products. We encourage those consumers with allergies and sensitivities to take advantage of this service.

Should you have questions or concerns with imported chocolate or other foods, please do not hesitate to contact the nearest CFIA office. The number can be found in the blue pages of the telephone directory.

P0206E-00
December 2000