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Re: Highlighting allergens for assistive technology

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From: chagnon
Date: Oct 11, 2021 10:07AM

Patrick beat me to it: why do it with CSS and other hidden labels?

In this case, it's about how the content is presented to all users, not just those using screen readers. I have severe allergic reactions to some ingredients, like your friend, so doing something with CSS wouldn't help a sighted user like me.

What the manufacturer could do is place a statement after the ingredient list, Known Allergens: ABC, XYZ, etc. We find similar labeling on food products: Contains wheat, soy, dairy, etc.

However, I doubt any skincare manufacturer would ever do this because most commercial personal care products today contain common allergens and carcinogens, too. Who's going to advertise that they cause rashes and reactions, exacerbate psoriasis and eczema, or cause skin cancer?

Best advice for your friend: shop for skincare products at a reputable health food store. They usually have trained product buyers who don't allow products with known allergens and carcinogens on the store's shelves. Personally, this has kept me safe for 30+ years, and I have severe reactions to some ingredients.

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