Why Reading Labels Isn't Enough: The Hidden Allergens You May be Missing

For anyone managing food allergies, reading ingredient labels is second nature. But what if we told you that even the most diligent label reading might not be enough? Unfortunately, hidden allergens can lurk in unexpected places, making it crucial to go beyond the label to ensure food safety. In this post, we’ll uncover where these hidden allergens might be hiding and how you can protect yourself.

Why Ingredient Labels Can Be Misleading

Food labeling regulations vary by country, and while many require manufacturers to disclose major allergens, loopholes still exist. Some ingredients may be listed under unfamiliar names, while others may not be explicitly declared due to cross-contamination risks.

Common Hidden Allergen Sources

Here are some of the sneaky ways allergens can find their way into your food:

1. ‘May Contain’ and Cross-Contamination Warnings

Even if a product does not list an allergen as an ingredient, it may still be processed in a facility that handles allergens. Labels like “May contain traces of...” or “Processed in a facility that also processes...” indicate a risk of cross-contact, but these warnings are voluntary and not standardized. Some manufacturers disclose this information, while others do not.

2. Alternative Names for Allergens

Some allergens go by names that aren’t immediately recognizable. For example:

• Milk may appear as casein, whey, or lactose.

• Eggs may be labeled as albumin or lysozyme.

• Soy can be found as soy lecithin, hydrolyzed vegetable protein, or edamame.

• Wheat might be listed as gluten, semolina, or durum.

For a full list of alternative names, check out FARE's Common Allergens page.

3. Flavorings, Additives, and Preservatives

Many processed foods contain vague terms like “natural flavors” or “spices,” which can sometimes contain allergens. For example, some artificial flavors and colorings are derived from dairy, soy, or other allergens.

4. Imported Foods

Labeling laws differ worldwide, and imported foods might not follow the same allergen disclosure standards as domestic products. Additionally, certain cuisines use common allergens in unexpected ways—soy sauce, for instance, often contains wheat. 

5. Personal Care and Non-Food Products

Food allergens can also hide in unexpected places like cosmetics, medications, and even pet food. For example, some lip balms contain almond oil, and some medications use lactose as a filler.

How to Protect Yourself

Since allergens aren’t always obvious on labels, here are some tips to stay safe:

• Use an Allergy-Scanning App: Apps like ours help decode ingredient lists and alert you to potential allergens that might not be clearly listed. Try our allergy-scanning app today and eat with confidence

• Check Manufacturer Websites: When in doubt, visit the brand’s website or contact their customer service for clarification.

• Be Cautious with ‘New & Improved’ Labels: Reformulated products may introduce new allergens, so always double-check labels even on familiar foods.

• Join Allergy Communities: Online allergy forums and groups often share updates about hidden allergen risks. Join the conversation on r/FoodAllergies.

Final Thoughts

Reading labels is essential, but it’s not foolproof. Hidden allergens can still make their way into your diet through cross-contamination, vague labeling, and alternative ingredient names. By staying informed, using technology, and adopting extra precautions, you can minimize risks and confidently navigate your food choices.

Want an additional way to take precaution? Our allergy-scanning app does the hard work for you—simply scan, check, and eat with confidence. Try it today!