TEXTILES.ORG
The asthma and allergy friendly™ Certification Program announced today that it has developed and adopted a certification standard and testing protocol for feather and down filled bedding. The program, administered by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) in partnership with the international research organization Allergy Standards Limited (ASL), is an independent, non-exclusive certification program created to scientifically test and identify consumer products that are more suitable for people with asthma and allergies.
For many years, the medical community has only recommended bedding items with synthetic fill for people with asthma and allergy to prevent exposure to common allergens, including mites and proteins that may be present in traditional fill. However, technological advancements and regulations in the production process of certain modern feather and down has resulted in a more uniform and refined natural down product.
“Our testing finally provides a way to determine the level of allergenic proteins in feather and down products,” said Mike Tringale, AAFA vice president, “which is a major advancement for the bedding industry, and a benefit to our patients and families.”