CFIA Undeclared Allergens and Gluten in Herb and Spice Products - 2015-2016 & 2017-2018

​​The main objective of this survey was to obtain additional information regarding the presence and levels of undeclared soy and gluten in ground spice and herb products. ​​2 surveys were completed to assess the presence of undeclared allergens and gluten in herb and spice products. The initial survey took place from April 1, 2015 to March 31, 2016, in which the main objective was to obtain baseline information regarding the presence and levels of undeclared allergens in ground herbs and spices consisting of only 1 ingredient. 598 samples were tested, and 34% (203) of the samples were found to contain at least 1 undeclared allergen, including the milk protein beta-lactoglobulin (BLG), egg, hazelnut, peanut, sesame, soy, and gluten. These positive results mostly indicated the presence of gluten in imported products. The second, follow-up survey took place between April 1, 2017 and March 31, 2018, and provided more in depth information regarding levels of undeclared allergens and gluten in imported herb and spice products. 359 samples were tested, and 23% (82) of the samples were found to contain at least 1 undeclared allergen, including milk proteins BLG and casein, egg, almond,…

Publisher

Canadian Food Inspection Agency

Resources

2

Catalogue metadata updated

2026-05-22