H.R.1178 - Alpha-gal Allergen Inclusion Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1178, the Alpha-gal Allergen Inclusion Act, aims to amend the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to include alpha-gal in the definition of 'major food allergen'. This bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on February 10, 2025, and referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce. The bill specifies that galactose-alpha-1,3-galactose, commonly known as alpha-gal, and ingredients derived from non-catarrhine primate mammals and red algae in the order Gigartinales, are to be considered major food allergens.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill would be to require food manufacturers to label products containing alpha-gal as containing a major allergen. This would increase transparency for consumers with alpha-gal syndrome, enabling them to make informed dietary choices. The amendment would take effect 18 months after the enactment of the Act.
Potential Benefits
- Improved Consumer Safety: Clear labeling will help individuals with alpha-gal syndrome avoid potentially severe allergic reactions.
- Increased Awareness: The Act will raise public awareness about alpha-gal syndrome and its triggers.
- Enhanced Dietary Choices: Consumers can make more informed decisions about the food they purchase and consume.
- Standardized Labeling: Establishes a consistent standard for identifying alpha-gal as a major allergen.
- Potential for Reduced Healthcare Costs: By preventing allergic reactions, healthcare costs associated with treating these reactions may decrease.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased Costs for Manufacturers: Food manufacturers may incur costs related to testing and relabeling products.
- Potential Supply Chain Disruptions: Identifying and sourcing alternative ingredients could disrupt supply chains.
- Limited Scope: The Act focuses solely on alpha-gal, potentially overlooking other emerging allergens.
- Enforcement Challenges: Ensuring compliance with the labeling requirements may pose challenges for regulatory agencies.
- Possible Over-Labeling: Manufacturers might over-label to avoid liability, potentially limiting consumer choices unnecessarily.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill aligns with the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3) of the U.S. Constitution, which grants Congress the power to regulate interstate commerce. By mandating labeling requirements for food allergens, the bill directly affects the sale and distribution of food products across state lines. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any individual liberties or rights protected by the Bill of Rights.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).