Current status and review of VITAL

At the Allergen Bureau Breakfast Seminar in Melbourne, Fiona Fleming provided an overview of the recent activities involving Voluntary Incidental Trace Allergen Labelling (VITAL). Activities mentioned in the presentation included a review of VITAL, international interest in VITAL and development of resources being made available to increase the uptake of VITAL across industry.

A scientific review of VITAL is currently underway to bring together the data which supports the VITAL Grid. The review process is planned to include preparation of an article for peer review and publication in a suitable journal. A draft of this document has been sent for review to several industry experts including Dr Steve Taylor, the Director of the Food Allergy Research and Resource Program (FARRP) at the University of Nebraska, USA.

VITAL has gained significant interest around the world, with invitations to speak received for conferences and forums in the UK, Canada, and US. Emails requesting assistance with VITAL have been received from Europe, Asia and South Africa, and over 40% of the Allergen Bureau website traffic is logged from outside Australia and New Zealand.

The Allergen Bureau is currently seeking to expand the number of endorsed VITAL training providers through a two-stage approval process which is nearing completion. Information about new trainers will be posted on the Allergen Bureau website and in subsequent issues of eNews. Included in this process is a review of ways to increase options for trainees through different training formats, timetables and other means.

The presentation on VITAL can be downloaded here from the Allergen Bureau website