Misinformation about food allergy is common in print media and on the Internet. These misconceptions can lead to dangerous consequences. Check this list for common food allergy myths and their truths.
Cook the Allergen Out
Myth: If an allergen is cooked or baked, the food allergic person can eat it safely.
Truth: Heat does not alter the food protein. For example, if a person is allergic to egg protein, they will have an allergic reaction to egg when it is raw, cooked or baked. The offending food needs to be totally avoided in whatever form.
Small Amount is Safe for Food Allergic
Myth: Food allergic people can eat a little bit of the food they are allergic to and have little or no reaction.
Truth: An allergic reaction can occur with a minute amount of protein. Some people are so sensitive that food protein in the air, such as from boiling wheat pasta, will bring on a reaction. For others, skin contact with a food allergen causes symptoms. No amount is safe.
There have been scientific studies recently in which food allergic patients are given a small portion of the protein they are allergic to, in increasing amounts. Some of these studies are promising, but this should only be done under close medical supervision.
Hand Wipes Clean Up Food Allergens
Myth: Hand sanitizers will get rid of food protein from hands and surfaces.
Truth: Washing with soap and water is the most effective way to get rid of food proteins. Hand sanitizers will not get rid of food allergens. Studies indicate that cleaning wipes that contain some type of solvent do appear to clear away allergens.
Causes of Food Allergies
Myth: The rise in food allergies has been caused by people being too clean.
Truth: Scientists do not know what causes food allergies or why the number of people diagnosed with food allergies continues to rise. The so-called hygiene theory is only one cause being explored. Other possible theories under consideration include additives to modern-day foods and the use of chemicals during farming processes.
Stop an Allergic Reaction
Myth: If someone with a food allergy has an allergic reaction, medicine or a shot will stop the reaction.
Truth: There is a medication that can stop an allergic reaction if it is administered in a timely manner. Epinephrine, administered quickly, can stop allergic symptoms. After using epinephrine (usually in the form of an injection given through an auto-injector) the food allergic person must seek medical attention. This medication simply buys time for the affected person to seek emergency medical treatment.
Children and Food Allergies
Myth: Food allergies only happen to children and they usually outgrow them before they go to school.
Truth: Food allergies can happen at any age. While they are more common in childhood, many adults develop food allergies, particularly to tree nuts and shellfish.
Daily Medicine for Food Allergies
Myth: There is a daily medicine for people with food allergies to take so they don't have a reaction.
Truth: There are no daily medications or immunotherapy injections available for food allergies. Strict avoidance of the food in question is the only way to prevent a reaction.
Food Allergy vs Food Intolerance
Myth: Food allergy and food intolerance are the same.
Truth: A food allergy involves the immune system and can be life-threatening. A food intolerance is a difficulty digesting a food which may lead to bloating and other gastrointestinal symptoms. A food intolerance does not involve the immune system. It is not life threatening.
Reading Labels for Food Allergens
Myth: Food allergic people can easily read labels to find out if something contains an allergen.
Truth: The Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act of 2004 requires that all food manufacturers clearly state if the product contains any of the eight major allergens (milk, egg, peanut, tree nut, soy, wheat, shellfish and fish). The law does not pertain to non-food items such as cosmetics and medicines. These items often contain hidden allergens.
Understanding food allergies will lead to greater compassion and safer schools, restaurants and public places for everyone. Learn the facts and avoid the myths about this often misunderstood medical condition.
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