True food allergies occur when the immune system has an adverse reaction to specific foods. These reactions can be severe, sometimes even life-threatening. Most food allergens are proteins that remain stable even during food processing. Recently, nuts have become especially prominent in vegan, vegetarian, flexitarian, and gluten-free diets.

When it comes to nuts, the main health risk is allergic reactions, as nuts are among the most common allergens. The nuts most often associated with allergies include almonds, Brazil nuts, cashews, chestnuts, hazelnuts, macadamia nuts, peanuts, pecans, pine nuts, pistachios, sesame seeds, and walnuts.

Symptoms of an allergic reaction can range from mild to severe, with anaphylaxis being the most serious. Anaphylaxis is a sudden and potentially fatal allergic reaction. Unfortunately, there is no cure for food allergies; they are managed by avoiding the allergen and being prepared to treat symptoms in case of exposure. Given the severity of nut allergies and their prevalence among children, there is a pressing demand for nut-free products.

NUTS-FREE PRODUCT APPROVAL PROCESS

Our Nuts-Free certification program is built upon the following core principles, as there is currently no formalized accreditation specifically for nuts-free certification:

1. Producer claim: To begin the certification process, you must provide evidence that your facility has implemented procedures to ensure the absence of nuts in your products. This starts with completing our comprehensive nuts-free application form, which includes detailed information about your production processes and facility management.

2. Accredited laboratory test reports: We require your product samples to be tested in accredited laboratories, specifically those recognized by the International Laboratory Accreditation Cooperation (ILAC). This guarantees accuracy and reliability in verifying your claims.

3. Third-party independent approval: To ensure an unbiased evaluation, ACS engages an independent third-party auditor to review your application and test results. Based on this review, we will determine whether your products meet the stringent requirements for our Nuts-Free certification and provide a recommendation for approval or denial.

The Nuts-Free certification is valid for one year, after which reapplication is required to maintain certification. We conduct regular audits and inspections to ensure your continued compliance with our rigorous standards.

BENEFITS OF ACS CANADA NUTS-FREE CERTIFICATION: SAFEGUARDING WELL-BEING AND ELEVATING REPUTATION

The ACS Canada Nuts-Free certification offers numerous advantages, making it an essential choice for both consumers and businesses.

In today’s world, where various types of nuts are widely used, it is crucial to address the sensitivities and allergies that can affect individuals, particularly children. Approximately 30% of people with nut allergies react to multiple types of nuts, highlighting the need for rigorous safety measures.

The food industry has a critical responsibility to protect public health by understanding allergens, monitoring ingredients, and preventing cross-contamination. Your commitment to safeguarding customer health is of utmost importance.

Achieving the ACS Canada Nuts-Free certification means your products will bear a symbol of trust, assuring consumers that they are free from nuts. This certification not only boosts consumer confidence but also enhances the reputation of your brand.

The ACS Canada Nuts-Free certification underscores your commitment to safety, elevating your status as a leader in allergen-conscious practices. With this prestigious certification, you set the standard for excellence in the nut-free market.

The ACS Canada Nuts-Free certification offers the following benefits:

1. Enhanced Consumer Trust: The ACS Canada Nuts-Free certification provides consumers with assurance that your products are entirely free from nuts. This trust fosters customer loyalty and strengthens your reputation.

2. Expanded Market Reach: With this certification, your products appeal to health-conscious consumers, schools, and organizations that prioritize allergen-free options, giving you a competitive edge.

3. Compliance with Regulations: Nut allergens are among the top food allergens worldwide. The ACS Canada Nuts-Free certification ensures that your products meet the highest safety and regulatory standards.

4. Risk Mitigation: The certification demonstrates your proactive approach to preventing cross-contamination, reducing the risk of allergic reactions and liability.

5. Strengthened Reputation: Earning this certification enhances your reputation as a brand committed to customer safety and well-being, attracting new customers and strengthening existing relationships.

6. Improved Product Quality: The certification process encourages a thorough evaluation of ingredients, processes, and safety measures, leading to improved product quality and operational excellence.

7. Peace of Mind for All: The ACS Canada Nuts-Free certification provides peace of mind not only to consumers but also to parents, schools, and organizations that serve individuals with nut allergies. It fosters a safer and more inclusive environment.

Experience the benefits of ACS Canada’s Nuts-Free certification. Prioritize health, safety, and reputation, and elevate your brand by becoming a leader in nut-free products. Choose ACS Canada and unlock new opportunities for growth and customer trust.

P.S.1 CODEX ALIMENTARIUS -FAO-WHO- CODE OF PRACTICE ON FOOD ALLERGEN MANAGEMENT-FOR FOOD BUSINESS OPERATORS-CXC 80-2020:

While many foods can cause allergic reactions, the majority of food allergies worldwide are caused by proteins in eight food groups:

1. Cereals containing gluten (wheat, rye, barley, oats), 2. Crustaceans, 3. Eggs, 4. Fish, 5. Milk, 6. Peanuts, 7. Soybeans, and 8. Tree nuts.

P.S.2 FDA states that the nine major food allergens are:

1. Milk, 2. Eggs, 3. Fish (such as bass, flounder, cod), 4. Crustacean shellfish (crab, lobster, shrimp), 5. Tree nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans), 6. Peanuts, 7. Wheat, 8. Soybeans, and 9. Sesame.

For more information or to embark on the journey to approval certification, please do not hesitate to reach out to our head office or submit your inquiry to info@canadacerts.ca