Celery: An important allergen in food regulation

Celery in EU Allergen Regulations

Celery is one of the 14 allergens regulated under EU regulations 1829/2003 and 1830/2003, making it mandatory to label it as a food ingredient. Despite being a less common allergen compared to others, celery can be a hidden ingredient in various food products and must be managed with utmost care to ensure consumer safety.

Hidden allergen in various foods

Celery is often used in spice mixtures for foods such as meat products, sausages, dressings, and instant soups. Additionally, it can be found in processed convenience foods in low concentrations, posing a risk to individuals with celery allergies. All parts of the celery plant—the leaves, stalk, and head—can be utilized in food preparation, increasing the likelihood of its presence in a wide array of dishes.

Risk of cross-contamination

Due to the similarity between celery and parsley plants, there is a significant risk of mix-ups in the fields or during harvesting and processing, which can lead to cross-contamination. This botanical similarity between the two plants presents a challenge for food producers in ensuring their products are free from unintended allergens. Proper identification and separation during agricultural and processing stages are crucial to minimize this risk.

Detection and quantification of celery

Given the close botanical relationship of celery to other plants, the highly specific real-time PCR method is currently the preferred choice for detecting and quantifying traces of celery in food. This advanced technique provides precise identification, ensuring that even small amounts of celery can be accurately detected. By employing real-time PCR, food manufacturers can maintain high food safety standards and comply with allergen labeling regulations.

Key benefits of monitoring celery allergens

• Consumer safety: Ensures that consumers, particularly those with celery allergies, are protected from potentially life-threatening allergic reactions.
• Regulatory compliance: Helps manufacturers adhere to EU Directive 2007/68/EC and other relevant regulations by accurately labeling products that contain celery.
• Quality assurance: Maintains the integrity and safety of food products by detecting and preventing accidental contamination with celery.
• Cross-contamination prevention: Identifies cross-contamination during processing and harvesting, ensuring that products meet safety standards.
• Advanced detection methods: Utilizes highly specific real-time PCR techniques to accurately detect and quantify celery traces, even in processed foods.

Conclusion

Monitoring for celery allergens is essential for protecting consumer health, ensuring regulatory compliance, and maintaining product quality. By employing advanced detection methods such as real-time PCR, manufacturers can accurately identify and quantify celery contamination, preventing allergic reactions and ensuring the safety of their products. This proactive approach supports robust allergen management and upholds the highest standards of food safety.