Help please, new to all of this

[tex]

Hi Carrie,

There probably are a few "dedicated" production lines around that never, or at least rarely, handle products that contain "allergens", but I have a hunch that many of the labels that don't include that type of warning are displayed on products that are made under the same circumstances, the companies just didn't choose to list an "advisory" stating that the product is "made on equipment that may process products containing peanuts, other nuts, milk, or whatever."

Such advisories are strictly voluntary - they are not a part of the food labeling law requirements, and many people think that they are overused to the extent that they simply serve to confuse consumers, rather than to provide any real benefits. Unfortunately, the practice is so widespread that it leads some consumers to assume that the absence of that warning implies that the product is not made on equipment that handles certain allergens, but that is simply not true. IOW, I would be surprised if you could find a product on the internet that is actually safer than what you have already bought. Experience is often our best guide.

I see you've already discovered the risk of being "wounded by friendly fire from friends and relatives" who feel obligated to help, but simply don't understand that they're not really qualified to "help". I hate being in that situation so much that a lot of the time, I do the cooking, if possible, and if it's not possible, I'm either very observant, and very careful, or I just don't eat.

Tex

[crranch]

Thanks Sweetheart,

Since Rick had eaten this brand with no apparent problems, we will just stick with it. Yesterday my sister who has a severe wheat allergy was with me at the store on our "reading safari" and she is now thankful that wheat is her only issue. After helping me read all these labels filled with hidden milk products, she told me that she is glad that it is me cooking for Rick and not her.

Thanks again for all the support, I don't feel like my head is going to explode today, and aside from our supply of raw milk, that is a major part of my diet and that of my show dogs and service dog, I have removed all other milk products from the house. I feel that will lessen the chance of any cross contamination, just like I had already done with the gluten and soy. My sister is planting a garden for us also, so we will have fresh veggies for Rick, along with the fresh beef,pork,chicken and eggs that I raise.

Carrie