Download FOOD ALLERGY FACTS WHAT IS A FOOD ALLERGY? An allergy

FOOD ALLERGY FACTS
WHAT IS A FOOD ALLERGY?
An allergy-specific reaction or sensitivity by the body to a particular food protein. A food allergy
occurs when the food that causes a reaction is eaten, inhaled or touched.
WHAT IS ANAPHYLAXIS?
Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can cause unconsciousness, coma and even death.
SYMPTOMS
Symptoms can be roughly divided by the area of the body where they take place:
SKIN: hives (red, itchy welts)
EYES: swollen, itchy, runny, blood-shot and mucous
UPPER RESPIRATORY: runny, itchy, stuffy nose; sneezing; post-nasal drip; sore throat
and swelling of the throat or larynx
LOWER RESPIRATORY: asthma (coughing, wheezing, difficulty breathing)
GASTROINTESTINAL: vomiting, diarrhea, bloating, cramps
PREVENTION
Reactions to food allergens can be life-threatening, but allergic reactions can be prevented by
avoiding contact with the allergic food. Unfortunately contact is often caused by crosscontamination.
WHAT IS CROSS-CONTAMINATION OF FOOD?
When the protein from one food comes in contact with another food, their proteins mix. While
we may not see traces of the food, there may be enough protein present to cause a serious
reaction if you are allergic to that food.
HOW CAN CROSS-CONTAMINATION OCCUR?
Cross-contamination occurs any time one food protein comes in contact with another food or
surface. This can occur by direct contact during processing and when using utensils that have
not been properly cleaned.
THINGS TO CONSIDER.....
Always read the ingredients listed. Watch for “MAY CONTAIN TRACES OF
PEANUTS/NUTS”. Never dip a knife into jam after it was used to spread peanut butter.
Always use clean utensils for each type of food you are preparing and serving. Traces of
food may be left on cutting boards, counters, knives, serving spoons, dish cloths, towels
and even hands and may unknowingly be spread to other foods. Wash hands frequently
when preparing and serving food.