AAA Food Manager Certification Practice Test

How many major food allergens are recognized?

1. 5

2. 7

3. 9

4. 12

The correct answer is: 9

The answer identifies nine major food allergens, which is critical for anyone working in the food service industry to know. These allergens, as established by various regulatory agencies like the FDA, include milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, soybeans, and sesame seeds. Recognizing these allergens is vital for food safety, as allergic reactions can be severe and potentially life-threatening. Understanding the number of recognized allergens helps food managers implement proper procedures in food handling to prevent cross-contamination and ensure the safety of guests with food allergies. This knowledge also supports compliance with labeling and training requirements, as it enables staff to provide accurate information and protect consumers effectively.