Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is The Food Allergen Database?
The Food Allergen Database is an online tool designed to help people quickly discover foods that may fit specific dietary needs and allergen restrictions. Users can search for common grocery products, browse by brand or category, and filter foods based on allergen-related attributes such as peanut-free, dairy-free, gluten-free, and more.
The goal of the database is to make it easier for individuals, families, schools, and organizations to identify foods that may be compatible with allergy-friendly diets or food sensitivity concerns.
2. Who is The Food Allergen Database designed for?
The database is designed for anyone looking to better understand food ingredients and allergen information. This includes:
• Individuals with food allergies
• Parents searching for school-safe snacks
• Schools and summer camps managing allergy policies
• People with dietary restrictions such as gluten-free or dairy-free diets
• Anyone researching ingredients before purchasing a product
3. How do I search for foods in the database?
You can find products using several different methods:
• Search by Product Name: Type the name of a food, snack, or brand into the search bar.
• Filter by Allergens: Select attributes such as Peanut-Free, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, or others to narrow results.
• Browse by Category: Explore products grouped by categories such as cereals, cookies, crackers, snacks, candy, and more.
• Browse by Brand: View products from specific food manufacturers.
4. What allergens can I filter by?
The Food Allergen Database currently allows filtering by the following allergens and dietary attributes:
• Dairy-Free
• Egg-Free
• Fish-Free
• Gluten-Free
• Kosher
• Non-GMO
• Organic
• Peanut-Free
• Sesame-Free
• Shellfish-Free
• Soy-Free
• Tree Nut-Free
• Wheat-Free
5. What does “Peanut-Free” mean in the database?
When a product is labeled as Peanut-Free in the database, it typically refers to products that are manufactured in facilities that do not handle peanuts. However, manufacturing environments and supply chains can change over time.
Always check the product packaging and manufacturer statements to confirm the most current allergen information.
6. Does the database guarantee a food is safe for my allergy?
No. The Food Allergen Database is an informational resource designed to help you research food products. It does not guarantee that a product is completely free from allergens.
Ingredient lists, manufacturing processes, and facility practices can change. Always verify allergen statements directly on the product packaging or with the manufacturer before consuming any product.
7. Where does the allergen information come from?
The information in the database is compiled from publicly available sources such as manufacturer ingredient lists, product labels, brand websites, and certification programs.
Because food formulations can change, users should always confirm allergen information on the product packaging before consuming a product.
8. Are all foods in the database allergen-free?
No. The database includes a wide range of foods, some of which may contain allergens. Filters allow you to narrow down results based on dietary preferences and allergen attributes.
This makes it easier to research foods that may fit your dietary needs.
9. Can I suggest a product to add to the database?
Yes. If you know of a product that should be included in the Food Allergen Database, you can submit it through our Product Suggestion Form.
Please include the product name, brand, and any allergen or dietary attributes that may apply.
10. Do you sell any of the products listed in the database?
No. The Food Allergen Database is a research and discovery tool. We do not sell products directly.
Products listed may be available through grocery stores, online retailers, or directly from manufacturers.
11. How often is the database updated?
The database is regularly expanded with new foods, brands, and product variations. Updates may include additional allergen information, new categories, or corrections when product information changes.
Even with updates, users should always verify product labels to confirm the most accurate information.
12. Can schools or organizations use this database?
Yes. Many schools, camps, childcare centers, and organizations with allergy policies use tools like the Food Allergen Database to research products before serving them to students or guests.
However, official allergy policies should always rely on verified ingredient labels and manufacturer statements.
13. Is the Food Allergen Database free to use?
Yes. The database is completely free to use for searching foods, browsing products, and researching allergen information.
14. Can I browse by brand or food category?
Yes. The database allows users to browse foods by category or brand. Categories may include snacks, cereals, cookies, crackers, candy, beverages, and other grocery items.
This makes it easier to explore food options from trusted brands.
15. Who maintains the Food Allergen Database?
The database is maintained by a team focused on improving access to allergen-related food information and helping consumers discover foods that may fit their dietary needs.
16. How can I contact the team?
If you have questions, suggestions, or feedback about the Food Allergen Database, please visit our Contact Us page.
We welcome feedback that helps improve the accuracy and usefulness of the database.