ABSTRACT
Chemical Hazards This statement was actually uttered by a food company employee who was upset that certain procedures were being put into place to manage the handling of allergens within the plant. Fortunately, this employee left the company, and attitudes like this are few and far between. Chemical contamination in the plant may occur from several sources, including the inappropriate use of lubricants, cleaning compounds, and sanitizers. For this reason, specific plant operating procedures will be developed to ensure that all chemicals are controlled and that all containers for cleaning and sanitizing compounds are clearly labeled and that instructions for use are present. However, the chemical hazard that has gaining increased recognition is that of food allergens. Food plants must recognize the ingredients that they use in their products that are considered allergens and control their handling, labeling, and sanitation. To do so, it is important to understand food allergy causative agents and food allergen management.
