Since October 2024, I’ve been experiencing severe health challenges due to anaphylaxis daily. After much investigation, my partner and I found that corn, which exists under 180+ different names and derivatives of corn, contributed to most of my flares. Corn derivatives are hidden in countless products, ranging from food to shampoos, hygiene products, cleaners, makeup and even medication, like Tylenol.  This discovery has been exhausting, as it makes finding safe food and products challenging.

Properly labeling corn and its derivatives is not just convenient, but essential. For those with Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) like me, encountering these hidden allergens can be life threatening. Companies often disguise corn ingredients under different names, making it incredibly difficult to identify and avoid them. As someone with low vision, I must rely heavily on apps and sighted individuals to spot allergens, which makes the need for accurate labeling even more critical. 

Canada currently mandates labels for certain allergens, yet corn is not on that list, despite its potential for severe allergic reactions. The lack of transparency and proper labeling in Canada puts countless individuals at risk, forcing us to maneuver through a potential minefield of allergens daily.

With over 180+ derivatives of corn lurking under various names, it is imperative that we require companies to clearly label their products. This would allow those of us with allergies to make safer choices, reducing the risk of severe reactions and increasing our quality of life.

Advocating for including corn and its derivatives on the allergen list protects the safety and well-being of many Canadians. I urge Canada to take immediate action to mandate comprehensive allergen labeling that includes corn and its derivatives, ensuring transparency and safety for all consumers.

Please sign this petition requiring the mandatory labeling of corn and its derivatives, protecting those of us battling hidden allergies daily. Your support is crucial in making this change possible.