Final answer:
The 'big 8' refers to milk, eggs, fish, crustacean shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, and soybeans, which are the major food allergens identified by FALCPA and account for the majority of food allergy reactions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term 'big 8' refers to the eight major food allergens identified by the Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act (FALCPA). These allergens are milk, eggs, fish, crustacean shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, and soybeans. Combined, they represent a significant percentage of all identified food allergens. The exact percentage can vary, but it is commonly understood that the 'big 8' allergens account for the majority of food allergy reactions. Therefore, the term 'big 8' underscores the importance of these allergens in food safety considerations, especially for individuals with food allergies.