Food allergens: the usual suspects

Got a food allergy, or think you have one? Health Canada has identified nine food allergens, foods most commonly associated with allergic reactions. While you can develop a sensitivity to any food, just a small minority are involved with the majority of food allergies.

Without further ado, meet the usual suspects:

  • eggs
  • fish (includes crustaceans and shellfish)
  • milk
  • peanuts
  • sesame seeds
  • soy
  • sulphites (a food additive that is also naturally found in food and the body)
  • tree nuts (includes almonds, Brazil nuts, cashews, hazelnuts [a.k.a. filberts], macadamia nuts, pecans, pine nuts, pistachio nuts, and walnuts)
  • wheat and other cereal grains that contain gluten

The foods listed above can produce a variety of allergic reactions that range from a mild case of hives to an extreme situation where you have trouble breathing. These foods can also be listed under other names in the ingredient list on a package. If you believe you have a food allergy, talk to your doctor. Don't take chances!

All material copyright MediResource Inc. 1996 – 2023. Terms and conditions of use. The contents herein are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Source: www.medbroadcast.com/healthfeature/gethealthfeature/Food-Allergy-Food-Enemy