Irish consumers allergic to animal-derived food like egg and milk are being warned that ‘vegan’ labelled products may not be completely free of animal-based allergens. The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) is warning those allergic to animal products to be extremely wary when buying vegan products, as cross-contamination can occur. This may not be an issue for vegans or those who choose not to eat animal products, however, it can have devastating health implications for those allergic to animal-derived products. The growing popularity in vegan or plant-based diets does not come without health risks, according to Dr. Pamela Byrne, Chief Executive of the FSAI. “Most people who follow dietary vegan or plant-based diets do not have allergies to animal-derived products, but for those who do, accidental cross-contamination of the foods labelled as vegan could have very serious health consequences.

Source: Irish Independent September 28, 2020 12:00 UTC