George P. Radanovich: “upon reading S. 741, there appears to be some confusion over the application of the allergen labeling requirements. It…”

“upon reading S. 741, there appears to be some confusion over the application of the allergen labeling requirements. It is my understanding that the requirements contained in this bill only apply to food subject to regulation by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). I would like to clarify that wine and other alcoholic beverages are regulated by the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau. Subject to a Memorandum of Understanding with the FDA, the Tax and Trade Bureau has primary jurisdiction over the production and labeling of most wine and other alcoholic beverages. In this regard, the Tax and Trade Bureau is sensitive to the issue of allergens in alcoholic beverages. For example, wine with levels of sulfites over 10 parts per million has been required to state 'Contains Sulfites' since 1987. The Tax and Trade Bureau works closely with the FDA in determining whether such labeling is appropriate. Because of the manner in which wine and other alcoholic beverages are produced, there are significant questions whether substances that Tax and Trade Bureau allows to be used in the production of wine would have any allergenic effect. In this connection, other countries have implemented or are considering additional regulation of allergens in their food supply.”