Inspiration for Starting this Initiative
I grew up with life-threatening food allergies to seven of the top nine allergens. Despite carefully avoiding these foods, I was sent to the emergency room twice before I turned seven due to accidental milk exposure. These traumatic experiences inspired me to create this initiative so that other children with similar disabilities have safer access to food.
— Russell Thai, Founder and President
What Are the Top Nine Allergens?
Milk allergy is the most common allergy in infants and young children.
Often found in:
- Cheese
- Caramel
- Whey Protein
- Cream-based soups
Egg proteins can hide in unexpected products like vaccines and some cosmetics!
Often found in:
- Cakes, muffins, macarons
- Mayonnaise
- Salad Dressing
- French Toast
- Custards
The majority of fatal food allergy reactions in the U.S. are caused by peanuts.
Often found in:
- Sauces
- Trail Mix
- Candy bars & Chocolates
- Baked Goods
30% of people with tree nut allergies experience severe anaphylaxis.
Often found in:
- Pesto Sauce
- Candy & Chocolate
- Granola
- Baked Goods
Just cooking fish can release allergens into the air.
Often found in:
- Miso Soup
- Fish sauce & Worcestershire sauce
- Imitation Crab
- Caesar dressing (anchovies)
Shellfish allergies often start in adulthood.
Often found in:
- Clam Chowder
- Seafood soups
- Fried seafood dishes
- Sauces & dressings
Wheat is the most widely consumed grain worldwide and is common in processed foods.
Often found in:
- Licorice
- Pasta
- Cereals
- Crackers
- Soy sauce
Soy is found in over 60% of processed foods in the U.S.!
Often found in:
- Tofu
- Teriyaki Sauce
- Miso Soup
- Edamame
- Protein bars
Sesame became the 9th major U.S. allergen in 2023!
Often found in:
- Hummus
- Everything Bagel
- Bread
- Salad Dressings
Did you know the top nine allergens affect millions every year, yet hundreds of thousands of people still aren't fully aware of what they are?
The top nine allergens are milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts (like almonds, walnuts, cashews, pistachios), fish (such as salmon, tuna, cod), shellfish (like shrimp, crab, lobster), wheat, soy, and sesame (officially added in 2023). These allergens can hide in everyday foods, from your favorite chocolate bar to your go-to noodles.
In the U.S., it's required by law that the top nine allergens be clearly labeled on packaged foods, often in bold, ALL CAPS, or BOTH, in the ingredient list, or a "Contains" statement right below it.
Sustainable Development Goals We Support
Through our work, we support four key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by helping ensure:
- No one goes hungry
- No one is excluded by traditional food distribution systems
- More people have access to safe and nutritious foods that promote well-being
- Redistributing donated food to those who need it
