Crustacean
Also known as: crustaceans
Crustaceans are nutritious whole foods but are one of the eight major food allergens identified by FDA under FALCPA, requiring clear labeling. Some species also accumulate environmental contaminants like methylmercury and cadmium.
What it is
Aquatic arthropods including shrimp, crab, lobster, crayfish – used as a food category descriptor.
Whole-animal food source; protein.
Why it's flagged
- major allergen
- potential mercury/cadmium accumulation
- raw consumption pathogen risk
What regulators actually say
"Crustacean shellfish (such as crab, lobster and shrimp) is one of the major food allergens."
"Crustaceans and products thereof ... shall be indicated in the list of ingredients."
Regulatory status
United States — FDA
Major allergen requiring labeling under FALCPA.
European Union — EFSA
Crustaceans and products thereof must be declared under Regulation 1169/2011 Annex II.
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