A true food allergy can NOT be avoided if the food is only eaten in small quantities, and will NOT be cured if only eaten on select days of the week. Peanuts are the leading cause of severe allergic reactions, followed by shellfish, fish, tree-nuts, and eggs. Physicians are reporting an increase in the number of food allergic individuals in America. Individuals with the combination of asthma and food allergy appear to be at an increased risk for a severe allergic reaction. Most individuals that have had a reaction ate a food that they thought was safe.
Food allergy is the leading cause of anaphylaxis outside the hospital setting.
It is estimated that as many as 100 - 200 people die each year from food allergy related reactions. Approximately 50 people die from insect sting reactions per year. Anaphylaxis accounts for an estimated 30,000 emergency room hospital visits each year. Consult your physician for medical advice. F.A.E. will not be responsible for any action taken by individuals as a result of their interpretation of information distributed by F.A.E. in any form.