Libby Dining at CU Boulder Achieves Certified Free From™ Peanuts, Tree Nuts, Wheat & Gluten
Food allergies and sensitivities are a growing concern for students, parents, and universities. In a landmark move, Libby Dining Center at the University of Colorado Boulder has become the first campus dining hall in Colorado—and one of the first in the nation—to be Certified Free From™ peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, and gluten (CU Boulder Today, June 2024). This significant step not only enhances student safety but also sets a new standard for food service transparency and allergen management.
What Does Certified Free From™ Mean?
- Certified Free From™ is a rigorous third-party certification ensuring that facilities and products are free from specific allergens.
- Libby Dining is now officially free from:
- Peanuts
- Tree nuts
- Wheat
- Gluten
- Certification involves strict sourcing, preparation, and cleaning protocols, plus ongoing audits to prevent cross-contact.
Why Is This Important?
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), about 32 million Americans live with food allergies, and reactions can be life-threatening. Wheat and peanuts are among the top eight allergens, and gluten sensitivity affects millions more, including those with celiac disease (PubMed, 2019).
How Libby Dining’s Move Impacts Food Safety and Student Life
By eliminating peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, and gluten from its menu and kitchen, Libby Dining:
- Reduces the risk of accidental exposure for students with severe allergies.
- Offers peace of mind for families and students managing food sensitivities.
- Sets a precedent for other universities nationwide.
| Region | Allergen Disclosure | Labeling Authority |
|---|---|---|
| United States | Must declare 9 major allergens (including sesame as of 2023) | FDA |
| European Union | Must declare 14 allergens (including celery, mustard, lupin, etc.) | EFSA |
Current News: Food Safety Alerts & Emerging Trends
- Food Recalls: The FDA recently announced a recall of several snack products due to undeclared peanuts, highlighting ongoing risks for those with allergies (FDA Recalls).
- New Labeling Laws: The EU’s updated allergen labeling regulations now require clearer ingredient lists and cross-contact warnings (FoodNavigator, Nov 2023).
- Plant-Based & Allergen-Free Trends: More brands are reformulating products to be free from top allergens and gluten, responding to rising consumer demand for “clean label” and “free-from” foods (Food Dive, 2024).
How Food Scan Genius Empowers Safer Food Choices
Staying safe isn’t just about dining halls. Food Scan Genius is a free app that helps you scan packaged foods for allergens, gluten, and other ingredients—at home, in stores, or on campus. The app uses up-to-date FDA and EFSA data, plus user reviews, to flag potential risks and help you find safe alternatives.
- Scan barcodes to instantly check for peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, gluten, and more.
- Customize your profile for allergies, sensitivities, or dietary preferences (vegan, keto, etc.).
- Get real-time alerts about recalls or ingredient changes.
User Testimonial: “As a student with celiac disease, Food Scan Genius is my go-to for checking snacks and groceries. It’s saved me from accidental gluten exposure more than once!” — Emily S., Boulder, CO
Download Food Scan Genius to make safer, smarter food choices wherever you are.
FAQs: Libby Dining, Food Allergies, and Free-From Certification
What is Certified Free From™?
Certified Free From™ is a third-party certification that verifies food facilities and products are free from specific allergens, using strict sourcing, preparation, and cleaning protocols.
How does Libby Dining ensure allergen safety?
Libby Dining uses dedicated equipment, ingredient sourcing, and staff training, plus regular audits, to prevent cross-contact and maintain certification.
What allergens are covered by US and EU labeling laws?
The US requires disclosure of 9 major allergens, while the EU mandates labeling for 14 allergens, including some not required in the US (like celery and lupin).
How can I check if packaged foods are safe for my allergies?
Use apps like Food Scan Genius to scan barcodes and get instant ingredient and allergen information, plus alerts about recalls or ingredient changes.
Conclusion: Making Food Choices Safer and Simpler
Whether you’re a college student, parent, or anyone concerned about food ingredients, understanding what’s in your food is essential. Libby Dining’s Certified Free From™ status is a major step forward for food safety and transparency. By staying informed—using resources like FDA and EFSA alerts, following food safety news, and leveraging tools like Food Scan Genius—you can confidently make choices that fit your health needs and values.
