Bimbo Bakeries Fights Sesame Labeling Rules

Bakery defies allergen labeling rules from FDA
By Newser.AI Read our AI policy
Posted Oct 10, 2024 2:18 AM CDT
Bimbo Bakeries Fights Sesame Labeling Rules
Bimbo bread is displayed on a shelf of a supermarket in Anaheim, Calif., on April 24, 2003.   (AP Photo/Damian Dovarganes, Files)

Bimbo Bakeries USA is challenging an FDA directive to alter its sesame labeling, despite warnings that several products are "misbranded." The company, home to brands like Sara Lee and Entenmann's, insists its labels, which sometimes list allergens not present, adhere to a safety-first philosophy. Officials argue this labeling strategy is meant to protect consumers with severe allergies from accidental exposure and is not an attempt to bypass safety standards. A letter from Bimbo stated, "We think our approach is the most protective of sesame-allergic consumers."

The FDA issued its warning in June, highlighting the legal risks if Bimbo fails to comply, ranging from recalls to fines and charges. While the FDA has yet to publicly respond, critics argue the company's strategy undermines consumers' trust. Sung Poblete of Food Allergy Research & Education emphasized, "We depend on accurate food labeling to feel safe." The reaction to Bimbo's stance highlights ongoing tension over a 2023 federal law mandating clear sesame labeling in all US food products.

Following the FDA's notice, Bimbo officials acknowledged that in some of its plants, some products include sesame and others do not, but the same labels listing sesame as an ingredient are used for all products regardless. They claim uniform labels provide transparency, even on items without sesame. However, they did correct labels for breads now accurately marked to include only hazelnuts, the actual ingredient, rather than claiming they included tree nuts. (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP)

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