Grill, Chill & Save Big This Labor Day With Natural Grocers®: Food Safety, Smart Choices & Food Scan Genius
As Labor Day approaches, families across the U.S. are ready to fire up the grill and enjoy the last days of summer. Natural Grocers® is making it easier than ever to host a healthy, budget-friendly cookout, offering deep discounts on grilling essentials, organic produce, and more [PR Newswire]. But as you plan your menu, it’s crucial to stay informed about food safety alerts, new dietary regulations, and ingredient labeling laws—especially if you or your guests have food sensitivities or dietary preferences. In this guide, we’ll help you grill, chill, and save big—while making smart, safe food choices.
Labor Day Grilling: Smart Shopping at Natural Grocers®
- Organic & Non-GMO Choices: Natural Grocers® offers a wide selection of organic produce, grass-fed meats, and non-GMO grilling staples.
- Special Labor Day Discounts: Enjoy up to 50% off select items, including plant-based burgers, gluten-free buns, and natural condiments.
- Eco-Friendly Supplies: Find compostable plates, utensils, and grilling accessories to make your cookout sustainable.
Why Ingredient Transparency Matters
Whether you’re shopping for classic burgers or innovative plant-based options, understanding ingredient labels is key—especially for those with allergies, intolerances, or ethical concerns. According to the FDA, U.S. food manufacturers must disclose major allergens (like peanuts, wheat, and soy) on packaging. In the EU, the EFSA requires even stricter allergen labeling, including mandatory disclosure of 14 allergens and clear ingredient lists.
| Country/Region | Required Allergen Disclosure | Labeling Format |
|---|---|---|
| United States (FDA) | 8 major allergens (peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, wheat, soy, fish, shellfish) | Bold font, separate “Contains” statement |
| European Union (EFSA) | 14 allergens (includes celery, mustard, sesame, lupin, mollusks) | Highlighted in ingredient list, plain language |
Stay Informed: Food Safety Alerts & Regulatory Updates
- Recent Product Recalls: The FDA recently issued a recall for certain frozen berry products due to potential Hepatitis A contamination [FDA Recall]. Always check for recalls before buying or serving food.
- New Labeling Laws: California’s ban on four food additives (including Red Dye No. 3) takes effect in 2027, impacting ingredient lists nationwide [NY Times].
- Emerging Food Trends: Plant-based grilling options and keto-friendly sides are surging in popularity, with Natural Grocers® expanding their selection of vegan and low-carb products [Food Dive].
How These Changes Impact You
If you have food sensitivities, dietary preferences, or ethical concerns, these developments can affect your choices:
- Safer Shopping: Stricter labeling laws mean more transparent ingredient lists.
- New Product Options: Recalls and bans may lead brands to reformulate products, offering safer alternatives.
- Trend Awareness: Plant-based and keto options are now widely available, making it easier to meet diverse dietary needs.
Food Scan Genius: Your Smart Shopping Companion
Making sense of ingredient lists and safety alerts can be overwhelming. The Food Scan Genius app simplifies this process:
- Instant Ingredient Analysis: Scan any product at Natural Grocers® to see allergens, additives, and dietary compatibility.
- Global Labeling Insights: Compare US and EU ingredient rules for imported foods.
- Recall Notifications: Get alerts for product recalls and safety warnings.
User Testimonial: “Food Scan Genius helped me quickly spot hidden gluten in a barbecue sauce. Now I shop with confidence and enjoy every cookout!” — Jessica S., Denver, CO
Download Food Scan Genius before your next shopping trip and grill with peace of mind.
FAQs: Labor Day Grilling, Food Safety & Ingredient Labels
What are the most common allergens in grilling foods?
The most common allergens found in grilling foods include wheat (in buns), soy (in marinades), milk (in cheeses), and nuts (in sauces). Always check ingredient labels for allergen disclosure.
How do US and EU labeling laws differ?
The US FDA requires disclosure of 8 major allergens, while the EU EFSA mandates labeling for 14 allergens. EU labels often highlight allergens directly in the ingredient list for clarity.
How can I stay updated on food recalls?
Check the FDA’s official recall page or use apps like Food Scan Genius to receive instant notifications about food safety alerts and recalls.
What are the latest food trends for Labor Day grilling?
Plant-based burgers, keto-friendly sides, and organic condiments are trending. Natural Grocers® offers a wide selection of these products for Labor Day.
Conclusion: Grill, Chill & Choose Wisely
Labor Day is the perfect time to celebrate with family, friends, and delicious food. By staying informed about ingredient labels, food safety alerts, and new dietary regulations, you can protect your health and enjoy every bite. Use tools like Food Scan Genius to scan products, compare labeling laws, and get instant alerts—making smart food choices simple and stress-free. Grill, chill, and save big this Labor Day, knowing you’re choosing foods that are safe, delicious, and right for you.
