How effective are the tests for potential food allergenicity?
When working with a gene from a known allergen, or a crop with a history of allergenicity, the recommended tests are very effective because of access to serum from people who are allergic. In the case of minor allergens, or of proteins with no allergy history, access to serum from allergic people does not exist. In those cases, the IFBC-ILSI recommended tests that provide the best available mechanism for identifying potential allergens. However, improved tests are needed and some recommendations have been made. For example, DuPont scientists are working with private and public researchers to develop improved methods such as ways to identify potential allergens in maize, and to improve models that help determine the potential allergenicity of new proteins.
