In a landmark decision for the food and beverage industry, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has officially removed coconut from its list of major food allergens, opening new avenues for product development and simplifying labeling requirements. This decision, announced in January 2025, marks a pivotal shift in allergen labeling requirements and opens up new opportunities for food and beverage manufacturers.
This change is detailed in the FDA’s updated “Questions and Answers Regarding Food Allergens” guidance, which clarifies labeling requirements under the Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act of 2004 (FALCPA). This reclassification is a substantial victory for the coconut industry and addresses long-standing concerns from both manufacturers and consumers:
- Simplified Labeling: Products containing coconut no longer require mandatory allergen labeling under the FALCPA of 2004. This may simplify packaging design and reduce the risk of mislabeling.
- Expanded Market Opportunities: The removal of the “allergen stigma” from coconut products may boost consumer confidence and drive innovation in coconut-based goods.
- Product Innovation: Brands can now explore new coconut-based formulations without the constraints of allergen-specific manufacturing processes.
- Consumer Education: This change provides an opportunity for brands to educate consumers about the true nature of coconut and its nutritional benefits.
For food and beverage manufacturers, these changes present both opportunities and responsibilities. While the removal of coconut from the major allergen list may simplify some aspects of production and labeling, it’s crucial to remain vigilant about other allergen updates and maintain clear, accurate labeling practices.
Partner with Imbibe for expert flavor creation and access to a robust product development team. We can help you reformulate (with or without coconut), perfect your current formula, and expand into new categories. Our flexibility, collaborative approach, and rigor ensures a safe, stable, and great-tasting result that meets all regulatory requirements. Connect with us to kick off your next project or request your next flavor.
