Food allergic individuals rely on product labeling to let them know when food items contain allergenic foods. However, as anyone with food allergies knows, these labels are sometimes frustrating. For instance, some feel that "over" labeling may restrict food allergic individuals from enjoying foods that are not in fact dangerous: This is the case when labels read "prepared in a facility that processes … " or "may contain…." Of course, there is a chance for contamination, so food allergic individuals should not risk eating these food items.

But when individuals, especially young people, feel that these labels are overcautious, they may not heed them and life-threatening exposure may occur. In short, for food labeling to actually protect allergic individuals, they must retain their validity in the eyes of food allergic consumers.

More straightforwardly dangerous, however, is when food products are actually mislabeled – specifically when manufacturers neglect to include the inclusion of highly allergenic foods. This was the case in a recent recall of Rice Krispies Treats Holiday Village Kits, whose icing packages contained "undeclared egg."

Parents of allergic children often sidestep the problem of food product labeling by making their children's food from scratch. Websites like Kids With Food Allergies help parents of food allergic children by offering a database of recipes that don't contain highly allergenic foods, such as eggs, peanuts, and dairy.

In addition, companies dedicated to making allergen-free cake mixes, treats, and the like give parents of food allergic children the peace of mind that comes with knowing the food they are giving their children was purposely prepared without dangerous ingredients. Such companies include Cherrybrook Kitchen, Navan Foods, and Divvies.