Update - Summary of FDA’s Food Allergy Label Changes

In 2025, the FDA updated the major allergen list to ease labeling. The changes will impact what appears in the “contains” line on packages. However, there will be a transition period while older labels phase out and new labels are introduced.

Coconut Is NOT a Major Allergen Anymore!

Coconut will no longer be listed in the “contains” statements, but it will be listed in the ingredient list. If you’re allergic to coconut, you now must read the ingredient list for signs of coconut.

Milk Allergy Updated ~ Labels Now Cover More Than Just Cow’s Milk

Milk allergen now includes milk from goats, sheep and other animals too. This means the milk of any animal is now treated as a major allergen in the allergy list

Egg Allergy Updated ~ Labels Now Include More Than Just Chicken Eggs

Eggs in the allergen list now includes eggs from duck, goose, quail and other birds, and all types of eggs are now treated as major allergens in the allergy list.

Label Reading Rules Still Apply

1.            Check the “Contains” list for the updated major allergens: (milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, soy, fish, shellfish, sesame)

2.           The ingredient list is still the holy grail. So, always read the full ingredient list for allergens, especially if you have a coconut allergy and for special milk or egg allergies.