Food Allergies Are On The Rise – Are You Next?

What if the food you’ve loved for years suddenly turned against you?
Food allergies are no longer rare. They are rising at an alarming rate worldwide, affecting both children and adults. This growing epidemic is not just a dietary inconvenience—it’s a serious public health concern.

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The Shocking Rise of Food Allergies

In recent decades, food allergies have skyrocketed, especially in developed countries.

📈 According to the CDC, the prevalence of food allergies in children increased by around 50% between 1997 and 2011.
🚑 Hospital admissions for life-threatening anaphylaxis have surged.

But it’s not just children. More adults are developing new food allergies than ever before, making this a rising threat across all age groups.

This rapid increase has led to stricter food labeling laws, better awareness, and more research into the “why.”

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The Most Common & Deadliest Food Allergies

While allergies can develop to almost any food, nine allergens are responsible for the majority of severe reactions:

• 🥜 Peanuts
• 🌰 Tree nuts (like almonds, walnuts, cashews)
• 🥛 Milk
• 🥚 Eggs
• 🐟 Fish
• 🦐 Shellfish (shrimp, lobster, crab)
• 🌾 Wheat
• 🌱 Soy
• ⚠️ Sesame (recently added to major allergen lists in many countries)

🔴 Deadliest allergens: Peanuts, tree nuts, fish, and shellfish—these are most likely to trigger anaphylaxis, a potentially fatal reaction.

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Why Are Food Allergies Increasing?

Scientists don’t have a single answer—but here are the top theories:

1. The Hygiene Hypothesis
   • Modern sanitation reduces exposure to microbes early in life, making the immune system more reactive to harmless substances like food proteins.
2. Dietary Changes
   • Highly processed foods, additives, and changes in gut microbiota may alter immune responses.
3. Environmental Factors
   • Pollution, pesticides, and industrial chemicals could interfere with immune system development.
4. Delayed Food Introduction
   • Old advice told parents to avoid allergenic foods. New research suggests early introduction may actually lower risk.
5. Genetics
   • Family history increases risk, but genes alone can’t explain this massive surge.

Question: Were you told to delay peanuts and eggs when introducing solids to your baby?

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About

Can You Develop a Food Allergy as an Adult?

Yes. Adult-onset food allergies are on the rise.
⚠️ Shellfish, tree nuts, and certain fruits are common adult triggers.
⚠️ Reactions can be severe—even if you’ve eaten the food safely before.

Also watch for Oral Allergy Syndrome (OAS):

• Raw fruits, vegetables, or nuts cause itching or swelling in the mouth due to cross-reaction with pollen allergies.

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How to Stay Safe

If you or a loved one has a food allergy, here’s how to stay protected:

1. Read Food Labels Carefully
   • Ingredients can change. Always double-check.
2. Avoid Cross-Contamination
   • Use separate cooking tools and prep areas.
3. Carry an Epinephrine Auto-Injector
   • Always keep it nearby if prescribed. It can save your life.
4. Speak Up When Dining Out
   • Clearly explain your allergy. Ask how food is prepared.
5. Stay Updated
   • Follow trusted sources for new allergy research, laws, and food recalls.
6. Talk to Your Pediatrician About Early Food Introduction
   • Introducing allergens early (under medical guidance) may reduce the risk.

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Conclusion

Food allergies are rising fast—and no one is immune.
Whether you’re a parent, teen, or adult, understanding the risks and being proactive is the best way to stay safe.

💡 Being informed, cautious, and prepared can help you live fully—without fear.

Question: Have you or someone you know developed a food allergy as an adult?

Mrs. Poulami Mitra is a dietician with an M.Sc. in Dietetitcs & Community nutrition management and a life member of Indian Dietetics Association. She is a coauthor of this article.

References:

1.       https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/pressroom/nchs_press_releases/2022/20220126.htm

2.       https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21134576/

3.       https://www.niaid.nih.gov/sites/default/files/faguidelinespatient.pdf

4.       https://acaai.org/allergies/allergic-conditions/food/

5.       https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24388012/

6.       https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5123910/

7.       https://prosperlaw.com/can-sue-restaurant-food-allergies/