Alpha-gal Allergen Inclusion Act
Alpha-gal Allergen Inclusion Act
Plain Language Summary
# Alpha-gal Allergen Inclusion Act Summary **What It Does** This bill would require food manufacturers to label products containing alpha-gal (a sugar molecule found in red meat and other mammal-derived products) as a major food allergen. Currently, food labels must identify eight major allergens—like peanuts, milk, and shellfish—but alpha-gal is not included. The bill would add alpha-gal to this list, making it mandatory for companies to clearly disclose its presence on packaging. **Who It Affects** The bill primarily affects people with alpha-gal syndrome, a condition triggered by certain tick bites that causes an allergic reaction to alpha-gal.
Individuals with this allergy can experience severe reactions to red meat, pork, lamb, and some other animal products. Food manufacturers would need to update their labeling practices to comply with the new requirement. **Current Status** HR 1178 was introduced by Representative Jefferson Van Drew (R-NJ) in the 119th Congress and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been voted on by the full House of Representatives. The bill has not advanced to a vote at this time.
CRS Official Summary
Alpha-gal Allergen Inclusion ActThis bill expands the definition of major food allergen to include galactose-alpha-1,3-galactose (commonly known as alpha-gal). Under current law, food labels generally must identify each major food allergen found in labeled food products. (Certain tick bites cause an allergic condition known as alpha-gal syndrome that can result in an allergy to the alpha-gal molecule, which is found in red meat and other products made from mammals.)
Latest Action
Referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.