LabelGuard
Allergen Guide

πŸ‡ΊπŸ‡Έ Crustaceans Allergen in US

Crustaceans (Crabs, lobster, shrimp) is NOT a regulated major allergen in US, but must still appear in the ingredients list if present.

What the Rule Is

Crustaceans is not on the regulated allergen list in United States, but it must still be declared as an ingredient when present, and export markets may treat it differently. FALCPA (2004) and the FASTER Act (2021) define 9 major allergens β€” milk, eggs, fish, crustacean shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, soybeans, and sesame (mandatory since 1 January 2023). Each must be declared either in parentheses in the ingredient list or in a "Contains" statement, and tree nut species must be named individually.

What You Must Include
  • Clear declaration of "Crustaceans" or specific derivative names
  • Proper emphasis in the ingredients list
  • Declaration of processing aids containing the allergen
Common Violations
  • Using scientific names without the common name "Crustaceans"
  • Missing hidden sources in compound ingredients
  • Insufficient emphasis in ingredients list
Examples: Compliant vs Non-Compliant

Compliant Examples

Ingredients: Flour, **Crustaceans**, Sugar

Non-Compliant Examples

Ingredients: Flour, Crustaceans, Sugar (no emphasis)
How LabelGuard Checks This

LabelGuard scans your label for crustaceans and all its derivatives including: Shrimp, Crab, Lobster, Prawns, Crayfish.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What ingredients contain hidden crustaceans?

Common hidden sources include: Shrimp, Crab, Lobster, Prawns, Crayfish, Crustacean shellfish.

Is crustaceans one of the major allergens in US?

No β€” crustaceans is not on the regulated allergen list in US, but it must still appear in the ingredients list if present.

How are allergens required to be declared in US?

FALCPA (2004) and the FASTER Act (2021) define 9 major allergens β€” milk, eggs, fish, crustacean shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, soybeans, and sesame (mandatory since 1 January 2023). Each must be declared either in parentheses in the ingredient list or in a "Contains" statement, and tree nut species must be named individually.

Regulation Sources

Last updated: 2026-07-20

Disclaimer: This information is for guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult official regulations and seek professional legal advice for specific compliance questions.

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