Cross-Contamination & AllergensQuestion 149 of 319
A bakery sells loaves that contain no nuts in the recipe, but the dough is mixed in the same bowl used for walnut bread. The most appropriate label statement is:
a.“Guaranteed allergen-free” on the front of the package
b.A voluntary advisory such as “May contain tree nuts” in addition to the required “Contains” statement for any actual ingredient allergens
c.No statement at all because walnuts are not in the recipe
d.“Certified nut-free”, since the recipe lists no nuts
Explanation
When shared equipment can introduce traces of an allergen, FDA permits a voluntary precautionary statement such as “May contain tree nuts”. The required “Contains” statement only lists allergens that are actual ingredients. Claims like “certified nut-free” or “allergen-free” are inaccurate and can mislead vulnerable consumers.
Law Reference: FDA Food Code 3-602.11; FALCPAThis topic, taught in full in the Food Handler Card guide. Food Handler Card — Complete Study Guide (2026) — PDF + EPUB, $9.99 · 14-day refund →
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