Food allergies reduce the quality of life of allergic people. To prevent this, adequate labeling practice plays an essential role in avoiding unnecessary exposure to allergens.

To investigate the impact of food allergies amongst Spanish adults, an online survey with a shortened version of the Adult Food Allergy Quality of Life Questionnaire (FAQLQ), and some complementary questions, was distributed to AEPNAA (Spanish Association of People with Food and Latex Allergies) members. Some of the questions included were about their perceptions regarding food safety and labeling, and how allergens are generally managed in restaurant businesses.

Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011 on the provision of food information to consumers establishes, among other things, the obligation to include allergens listed in its Annex II on food labeling. However, despite this regulation, consumers with food allergies surveyed (n=134) believe that the labeling is incomplete (81.3%), that there is an excessive use of the phrase “may contain traces” (66.4%), and that the inclusion of pictograms would facilitate their understanding (74.6%).

Regarding the presentation of information on unpackaged food in restaurants, they express dissatisfaction with the lack of uniformity between establishments (76.9%), a consequence of the regulatory flexibility in this respect (Royal Decree 126/2015). This creates insecurity and has led them to change their choice at some point (84.6%).

In conclusion, food allergies not only pose health risks, but also have a social and emotional impact on the quality of life of allergic individuals. The information provided to consumers through labeling or menus should be accurate, clear, and complete to ensure food safety and improve the perceptions that allergic consumers have of it.