FOOD ALLERGY FACTS
Find in-depth food allergy information and current facts on FARE , AAFA, AAN, and FAACT’s websites.
What is a food allergy?
A true food allergy is an immunological reaction to a certain food. It is not the same as food intolerance, such as lactose intolerance, which does not involve the immune system.
Pediatric: Convincing: 8% of US Children have a food allergy (that’s 2 kids per classroom). Physician-Diagnosed food allergy is 4.7%
Adults: Convincing: 10.8% have a food allergy. Physician-Diagnosed: 5.1%. Self-Reported: 19%
What foods can cause allergic reactions?
Any food can cause an allergic reaction, but 90 percent of all food allergies are caused by the following foods: milk, egg, peanut, tree nut, fish, shellfish, sesame, soy, and wheat.
Did you know that as of January 1st, 2023, sesame became the 9th major allergen?
What are the symptoms of an allergic reaction?
Symptoms can range from mild to life-threatening (anaphylaxis). They may include hives, itching or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or mouth, vomiting, diarrhea, cramps, itching or tightness in the throat, difficulty breathing, and wheezing.
What is anaphylaxis?
Anaphylaxis, or anaphylactic shock, is a severe allergic reaction that starts with a serious drop in blood pressure and can lead to unconsciousness and often includes hives, itching or swelling of the face, mouth, and throat, vomiting, diarrhea, cramps, itching or tightness in the throat, difficulty breathing and wheezing. Anaphylaxis can be fatal if not treated immediately with epinephrine. Anaphylaxis can be caused by a minute amount of food or traces of food that is ingested by an allergic person.
Can food allergies be cured or outgrown?
There is no cure for food allergies. Strict avoidance is the only way to prevent a reaction. While some children outgrow their allergies, peanut, tree nut, fish, and shellfish allergies are considered life-long. Some studies suggest that 20% of patients may outgrow their peanut allergy.