Plans for Protecting Consumers
Yet, there are still some concerns. According to an FDA-led study, published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, the small concentrations found in cumin could point to a larger issue. “This very low-level peanut contamination raises concerns of a possibly systemic problem, potentially due to co-mingling of cumin and peanut at the powder manufacturing source,” stated researchers, who analyzed the cumin lots involved with the recalls.
Opportunities for contamination exist at numerous points along the spice supply chain. Photo: Courtesy Dr. Phil Johnson However, at present, there is no requirement for importers of spices to test for allergens, a spokesperson from the FDA noted, though individual companies may include this type of testing as part of their supply program – an option that has become more popular after the mass cumin recalls.
Deem says that some spice companies have adjusted their supply chain so they deal directly with cumin farmers in an attempt to gain greater control and minimize contamination. Others switched to importing whole cumin, so it can be cleaned and tested in the U.S. before being ground. One company is even looking into growing cumin domestically.
In February 2016, the FDA stated that consumers do not need to change their spice purchasing habits, citing the new FSMA regulations being implemented. For those still wary about peanut exposures, Allergic Living has published a guide to help consumers determine which spice brands have addressed allergen safety.
Taylor seems convinced that the worst is over and that the allergy community can return to safely adding spice to their dishes. While the industry tightens up to protect consumers, he says it’s unlikely that the great cumin recall will repeat itself.
“I think people can relax now,” he says. “Allergic consumers obviously always have to be on alert, but most of these episodes, even massive ones like this, are typically over and done with it because the industry is going to be very alert on your behalf.”
