Ottawa, ON - Canadian Food Inspection Agency

As part of the Canadian Food Inspection Agency's (CFIA) routine testing of various food products, a report released today found the majority of the protein substitutes tested negative for undeclared allergens and gluten. The targeted survey tested 286 liquid and powder protein substitutes for the presence of allergens and/or gluten including soy, egg, milk, peanuts, almonds, hazelnuts and sesame.

Twenty positive results were obtained for almond, gluten or milk, which could pose a health risk for allergic consumers if they were consumed. These results were found in 18 samples that were tested for multiple allergens. All samples with positive results were submitted to Health Canada for an assessment of the potential risk and advice to CFIA for follow up.

As a result of this study, four products with positive results were recalled by CFIA. Further investigation resulted in additional sampling and a secondary recall of two products.

Quick Facts

• The CFIA completed 1,740 tests for this targeted survey. Samples were collected between April 2011 and March 2012, prior to Canada's new food allergen labelling regulations coming into force in August 2012.
• Targeted surveys are used to test various foods for specific hazards and are meant to compliment the CFIA's regular programs and inspection activities.

src:news.gc.ca