Virginia
Senator Mark Warner Introduces Alpha-gal Allergen Inclusion Act to Protect Consumers
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Key points
- Senator Mark Warner introduced the Alpha-gal Allergen Inclusion Act to add alpha-gal to the major food allergen list.
- The legislation requires food manufacturers to clearly disclose mammalian-derived ingredients on packaged products.
- The bill was referred to the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions for review.
NewsWK — On September 24, 2026, Senator Mark R. Warner, a Democrat from Virginia, introduced a new federal legislative measure during the second session of the 119th Congress. Titled the Alpha-gal Allergen Inclusion Act, Senate Bill S. 5498 specifically addresses growing public health concerns regarding tick-bite-induced red meat allergies across the country.
The Need for Alpha-Gal Syndrome Food Labeling
Many Americans live with alpha-gal syndrome, a condition caused by tick bites that triggers dangerous allergic reactions to mammalian food products. Navigating grocery store shelves can prove difficult and hazardous for these individuals. Clear, mandatory ingredient warnings on packaged consumer items are intended to prevent accidental exposure and protect vulnerable shoppers.
Mandating Changes Under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act
Known officially as “A bill to amend the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to add alpha-gal to the definition of ‘major food allergen,'” S. 5498 seeks to alter statutory food safety standards. The proposed legislation formally incorporates galactose-alpha-1,3-galactose into federal law alongside other recognized major food allergens.
Congressional Next Steps for the Alpha-gal Allergen Inclusion Act
Following its formal introduction, the Senate read the measure twice and officially referred S. 5498 to the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. Under the requirements of the Alpha-gal Allergen Inclusion Act, packaged food companies must disclose:
- Ingredients derived from mammals;
- Any food products containing galactose-alpha-1,3-galactose; and
- Major food allergens associated with alpha-gal syndrome.
This article was produced with the assistance of AI and reviewed by our editorial team.
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