An Eastern Wisconsin Senator is looking to improve training for restaurant and food processing plant certification.
Sen. Andre Jacque joined forces with Rep. Rob Kreibich of New Richmond to introduce a new bill that would ensure the training includes basic allergen awareness covering all major food allergens, as well as training on gluten, cross-contact, and safe preparation practices.
The bill also requires that any DATCP rule governing food processing plants and retail food establishments cover all major food allergens, including sesame.
It also requires persons selling home-canned food products to list all major allergens on their labels.
In their announcement, the duo noted, “An increasing number of Americans are suffering from food allergies. For example, according to the Celiac Disease Foundation, an estimated 3 million Americans have celiac disease, and an even larger number experience gluten intolerance. Another common allergen is sesame. According to one 2019 survey, an estimated 1.5 million Americans have an allergy to sesame. Exposure to either allergen can result in a range of symptoms, from hives and flu symptoms to a more severe life-threatening response of anaphylaxis.”
