Advocates Push for Alpha Gal to be Classified as Major Food Allergen Amid Rising Cases
Advocates are urging the U.S. Congress to classify alpha gal, a molecule causing severe allergies, as a major food allergen. This push comes as cases of alpha-gal syndrome (AGS) have increased significantly, particularly due to the expanding habitat of lone star ticks. AGS, which can cause severe allergic reactions to mammal products, affects nearly half a million Americans. The Alpha-gal Allergen Inclusion Act, introduced in 2025, aims to mandate food manufacturers to label products containing alpha gal. This legislation is crucial for individuals like Erica Pernell, who must meticulously check food and medication labels to avoid life-threatening reactions. The condition's complexity is compounded by the lack of clear labeling on food and medications, which often contain animal-derived ingredients. 
