Dairy-free wording guide

“Dairy-free,” “non-dairy,” “vegan,” and “does not list milk as an ingredient” are not interchangeable answers to every dietary or allergy question.

Milk is a major allergen

FDA includes milk among the nine major food allergens. For regulated packaged foods, milk must be declared when it is a major allergen used in the product.

Separate four questions

A careful evaluation distinguishes formulation, labeling, preparation and personal needs.

• Does the documented recipe contain milk-derived ingredients?
• What claim, if any, appears on the original packaging?
• Is shared equipment or serving ware used?
• Is the question an allergy, intolerance, vegan preference or another dietary need?

Why category names are insufficient

Terms such as Italian ice, sorbet, oat-based or fruit flavor describe a category or characteristic. They do not automatically document every ingredient, inclusion or cross-contact condition.

How to ask Pete’s

Name the exact flavor, size, cone or cup, toppings and date you plan to order. Ask staff to check the most current available information.