A food allergy causes an overreaction by the immune system to the offending food. Food allergies are more common in people with a family history, says the American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology. Reactions can occur even when only tiny amounts of the allergen are consumed. The Mayo Clinic lists 8 foods as the top allergens. They say foods with common allergies are labeled as containing the allergen. Label reading is the key to avoiding a reaction.
Milk
The Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network (FAAN) says about 2.5 percent of children younger than 3 have an allergy to milk. Most children will outgrow the allergy within the first few years. Hidden sources of milk protein may include meat from a deli, brands of tuna with casein, and meats with casein.
Eggs
Egg allergies occur in about 1.5 percent of young children, says FAAN. Egg allergies are also usually outgrown. An egg allergy can cause a skin reaction and anaphylaxis. Hidden sources of eggs include foam in coffee bar drinks, egg substitutes, commercially processed cooked pastas, like the ones found in soups and egg washes on foods like pretzels.
Peanuts
Peanut allergies are becoming more common, according to FAAN. Reactions in a peanut allergy are severe, and the allergy is lifelong. Hidden sources of peanuts include chili sauce, hot sauce, gravy, mole, salad dressing, egg rolls, pudding, cookies, specialty pizza, Asian and Mexican foods, and vegetarian meat substitutes
Tree Nuts
A tree nut allergy is the leading cause of food allergy death, reports FAAN. Tree nuts include Brazil nuts, walnuts, hazelnuts, almonds, coconuts, cashews and pistachios. People do not outgrow tree nut allergies. Some hidden sources of tree nuts include honey, pancakes, pasta, barbecue sauce and pie crusts.
Fish
FAAN reports 2.3 percent of Americans are allergic to fish and shellfish. The most common fish allergies include salmon, halibut, and tuna. FAAN recommends if people are allergic to one fish, they should avoid all fish. A fish allergy is a lifelong allergy. Some hidden food sources of fish include salad dressing, Worcestshire sauce, barbecue sauce and meatloaf.
Shellfish
Most people with an allergy to shellfish have their first reaction as an adult, say FAAN. Shellfish allergies are lifelong once the reaction occurs. Eating out can be a concern with a shellfish allergy due to cross-contamination, explains FAAN. They suggest avoiding seafood restaurants, and taking caution when eating at Asian restaurants because of the abundant use of fish sauce.
Wheat
A wheat allergy occurs in childhood, and is usually outgrown before adulthood. A wheat allergy is not the same as celiac disease, explains FAAN. People with a wheat allergy have an IgE-mediated reaction when eating only wheat proteins. Reactions do not occur with other grains. Label reading is encouraged with a wheat allergy. Wheat can appear in unsuspecting foods like hot dogs, ice cream, marinara sauce and potato chips.
Soy
Soy has become a common ingredient in many processed foods and can be difficult to avoid, says FAAN. They suggest consulting with a dietitian to help plan balanced meals with a soy allergy. Hidden sources of soy include cereal, tuna, crackers, infant formula, peanut butter and soups.
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