The most serious food allergy is anaphylaxis, a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction. Anaphylaxis occurs when the body releases a large amount of histamine and other chemicals in response to exposure to an allergen, causing a range of symptoms that can include:
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, and throat
- Difficulty breathing
- Hives or itching
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- A drop in blood pressure
- Loss of consciousness
While many different foods can trigger allergic reactions, the Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act of 2004 (FALCPA) identified eight major food allergens that account for most serious allergic reactions in the United States:
- Milk
- Eggs
- Fish
- Crustacean shellfish
- Wheat
- Soy
- Peanuts
- Tree nuts
These eight foods are responsible for the majority of anaphylactic reactions related to food allergies. It is important to note that any food allergy can be serious and potentially life-threatening, but these eight are the most commonly reported as causing severe reactions.
