EAT YOUR COLORS- Hispanic Heritage Month

Top 9 Food Allergens

according to the USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS)

Q: What Is a Food Allergy?

A: A food allergy is a specific type of adverse food reaction involving the immune system. The body produces an immunoglobulin E (IgE), antibody in response to a food. An allergic reaction ensues once a specific food is ingested and binds with the IgE antibody. Most food allergies are caused by certain proteins.

“It's important to note and to distinguish between an allergy and an intolerance. An allergy involves an immune system reaction, while an intolerance is a non-allergic sensitivity. If you suspect an allergy or intolerance, consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and guidance.”

The top 9 food allergens in the US are:

EGGS

Approximately 0.5-1% of the population in the United States has an egg allergy. Egg allergy is most common in children, affecting about 1.3% of children under the age of 18. About 70% of children with an egg allergy will outgrow it by age 16.

MILK

Lactose intolerance affects about 36% of the US population, mostly adults. But a milk allergy is approximately 0.4% of the population in the United States. Milk allergy is most common in infants and young children, affecting about 2.5% of children under the age of 3. About 80% of children with a milk allergy will outgrow it by age 5.