Which major food allergens are commonly required on menus in the United States?

• A. Citrus, peppers, corn, rice.
• B. Gluten, dairy, beef, pork.
• C. Milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, soy.
• D. Sesame, celery, mushrooms, onions.

Answer: (C)

In the United States, the major question is which foods must be disclosed because they can trigger severe allergic reactions. The standard set of eight major allergens that must be labeled on menus and labels is milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, and soy. This list comes from the law designed to help diners quickly identify risky ingredients. The other options mix in foods that aren’t part of that required list (like citrus or beef) or omit items that are, so they don’t fit the official labeling requirement. Sesame has become more recognized in newer guidance, but the established core set remains the eight listed here.