Market Trends of Food Allergen Testing Industry
Increasing Prevalence of Food Allergies
Food allergies are the leading cause of chronic diseases in many countries. Although the causes of allergic reactions have not yet been fully understood, they can be associated with pollution, dietary changes, and less exposure to microbes, which alter the way an immune system responds to certain food ingredients. Food allergies are commonly associated with products containing ingredients such as milk, nuts, gluten, eggs, soy, wheat, and shellfish. According to the data published by ACAAI (American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology) in 2023, eight food or food groups, like milk and dairy, eggs, fish, peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, wheat, and soy, account for 90% of food allergy reactions. Depending on the dose, the individual, and other factors, allergic reactions to food can vary from slight to severe and occasionally fatal. Therefore, manufacturers operating in the food and beverage industry are investing in food allergen testing solutions to validate their food labels and ensure food safety.
North America Holds Largest Market Segment
The growing prevalence of food allergies among the Canadian population is compelling brands to undergo allergen testing processes for packaged products. According to the organization, in 2023, over 3 million Canadians, or 7.5% of the population, were affected by food allergies. It is also estimated that 50% of households were directly or indirectly affected by food allergy; that is, one Canadian household was impacted by food allergy in 2023. Moreover, the new Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA) rules in the United States profoundly impact food industries, as consumers demand greater transparency regarding food safety. In 2022, the FDA finalized seven major rules to implement FSMA, recognizing that ensuring the safety of food supply is a shared responsibility among many different points in the global supply chain. Therefore, such regulations also lead to product recalls, giving manufacturers the conformity to following rules. For instance, Hans Kissel of Haverhill, MA, recalled its 7-ounce packages of Mexican-style quinoa salad and deli salad in 2024 as the product contains undeclared egg and soy.
