Which of the following is NOT considered a major food allergen?

In the context of food allergens, potatoes are not classified as a major food allergen. Major food allergens typically refer to a specific set of foods that are known to cause the majority of allergic reactions in individuals. These commonly include milk, shellfish, and peanuts, all of which are well-documented in allergy studies.

Potatoes, while they can cause allergic reactions in some rare cases, are not a part of the established list of major allergens recognized by authorities such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or the Food and Allergy Research and Education (FARE) organization. This distinction is important for food safety management, especially in environments where food is prepared and served, such as at Starbucks, as it helps in identifying which allergens need to be communicated to consumers to prevent allergic reactions. Understanding these classifications enables employees to better handle food safety protocols and ensure the well-being of customers with food allergies.