Big 9 Allergen-Free (879)

Some people simply prefer to avoid eating dairy or gluten. But for others, it’s not a choice as much as a necessity. It’s reported that an estimated 32 million Americans suffer from food allergies, including 5.6 million children under the age of 18. Most of these allergies are caused by one or more foods in a group commonly referred to as “The Big 8.” While food allergies can range from mild sensitivity to anaphylactic shock, it’s important to know which foods might pose a potential risk. Thankfully, more and more brands are labeling their ingredients in the clearest terms possible and some are even taking extra steps to ensure their products are “Big 8–free.” Here’s a closer look at some of our allergen-free favorites.

What Are the 'Big 8 Allergens?

The “Big 8” refers to a group of foods that cause 90 percent of food-induced allergic reactions:

• Eggs
• Peanuts
• Wheat
• Nuts
• Soybeans
• Milk
• Fish
• Shellfish

While these are the most common offending foods, it’s important to note that more than 160 different foods have been indicated in food-related allergic reactions.

What Does ‘Big 8 Allergen–Free’ Mean?

“Big 8 allergen–free foods” don’t include any of the eight top allergen-causing ingredients, and are manufactured in clean facilities—that is, ones that don’t also process foods with these potential allergens. The Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act (FALCPA) requires that any use of the Big 8 foods be clearly labeled on food packaging. Big 8 ingredients must be listed by their common name and may be included either in the ingredients list or separately in a “contains” statement.

Tips for Shopping Big 8 Allergen-Free

Unfortunately, labels can still be a bit tricky to navigate when it comes to shopping “Big 8–free.” If a product isn’t outright labeled as being free of these potentially triggering ingredients, there’s a chance it could cause a reaction. The good news is that there are a few handy resources available that take the guesswork out of shopping safely. On such resource is the Safe Snack Guide, which offers a catalog of allergen-free packaged foods that’s updated throughout the year.

Top Big 8 Allergen-Free Brands

Keep your pantry in the clear with these Big 8–free brands.

Thrive Market

Our own product line offers as many allergen-free products as possible. From sauces to snacks, there are plenty of wholesome pantry staples to help you steer clear of ingredients that might cause an allergic reaction.

Organic Apple Sauce Pouches

Our squeezable, resealable, easy-to-eat snack packs are made in a solar-powered, allergen-free facility. Grab them on the go or tuck them in your lunch.

Enjoy Life

Launched in 2001, this line of allergy-friendly, gluten-free, and non-GMO products includes natural ingredients to make mealtime simpler, especially when food allergies might be involved.

Semi-Sweet Chocolate Mini Chips

These semi-sweet morsels are ideal in cookies, pancakes, and your favorite chocolatey treats, and made in a dedicated gluten- and nut-free facility.

SmartyPants

Each batch of this supplement brand’s gummy vitamins is made from non-GMO, eco-friendly ingredients, tested by a third-party lab, and boosted with nutrients like omega fatty acids, fiber, and vitamins D3 and B12.

Kids Formula With Multivitamin

This yummy gummy delivers a daily supply of vitamin D, omega 3s, and other essential nutrients to help kids grow strong. Bonus: no artificial flavors or high fructose corn syrup.

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