Anne DEL SOCORRO – stock.adobe.com
DECRYPTION – Allergists are warning of several “emerging allergens” capable of causing very severe reactions, and which should join the list of ingredients requiring mandatory declaration on packaging and in restaurants.
It’s the story of a 4-year-old girl who didn’t like goat’s cheese. “It stings”she said to her mother, who was not at all worried: the child would not, after all, be the first to prefer milder cheeses, and one can grow up well without goat’s cheese. Until that day when the little girl bit into a simple quiche… and began to be unable to breathe. “Luckily, the Samu arrived very quickly, she was all blue, had to be intubated and was transferred to intensive care”remembers Dr Dominique Sabouraud-Leclerc, allergist at Reims University Hospital. In the recipe for the quiche in question, a little goat’s milk. The little girl was allergic to it and no one knew it. Elsewhere, she is a baking student who almost died from handling buckwheat; an infant who has made a anaphylactic shock because his little pot contained peas; or a young man of 20 who had consumed pine nuts
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What percentage of the US population is estimated to have a sesame allergy?
Table of Contents
- 1. What percentage of the US population is estimated to have a sesame allergy?
- 2. Emerging Allergens: Four New Foods to Stay Alert About
- 3. Sesame Seeds: No Longer a Hidden Allergen
- 4. kiwi: A Growing concern, Especially for Young Children
- 5. Galangal: A Spice with Rising Allergic Potential
- 6. Lupin: A Wheat Choice with Allergic risks
- 7. Understanding Food Allergy Symptoms
- 8. Managing Emerging Allergies: Practical Tips
- 9. Real-World Exmaple: The Rise of Sesame Allergy Awareness
- 10. benefits of Early Allergy Detection
Emerging Allergens: Four New Foods to Stay Alert About
For years, sesame was a relatively overlooked allergen, often hidden in food labeling under terms like “spices” or “tahini.” However, as of January 1, 2023, the Food allergy Safety, Therapeutic Treatment, and Research (FASTER) Act mandated that sesame be explicitly labeled as a major food allergen in the United States. This change reflects a significant rise in sesame allergies.
* Prevalence: Sesame allergy is estimated to affect over 0.2% of the US population, comparable to allergies to fish and shellfish.
* Symptoms: reactions range from mild (hives, itching) to severe (anaphylaxis).
* Hidden Sources: Be vigilant about sesame in baked goods, hummus, tahini, halva, and even some processed meats. Always read labels carefully.
* Cross-contamination: sesame oil is frequently used in food processing, increasing the risk of cross-contamination.
kiwi: A Growing concern, Especially for Young Children
Kiwi allergies are increasingly recognized, especially in young children. While not as common as peanut or milk allergies, the incidence is rising, and reactions can be severe.
* Oral Allergy Syndrome (OAS): Many individuals with kiwi allergy also experience OAS, characterized by itching or tingling in the mouth and throat.
* Severity: Kiwi allergy is associated with a higher risk of severe reactions, including anaphylaxis, compared to some other fruit allergies.
* Proteins Involved: Act d 1 is the major allergen in kiwi, but other proteins can also trigger reactions.
* Geographic Variation: Prevalence varies geographically, with higher rates reported in some European countries and New Zealand.
Galangal: A Spice with Rising Allergic Potential
Galangal,a rhizome similar to ginger,is gaining popularity in Southeast Asian cuisine. Though, its increasing use is coinciding with reports of allergic reactions.
* Cross-Reactivity: Individuals allergic to ginger may also react to galangal due to shared protein structures.
* Symptoms: Reported symptoms include skin rashes, gastrointestinal distress, and respiratory issues.
* Limited Research: Research on galangal allergy is limited, making diagnosis and management challenging.
* Culinary Uses: Commonly found in Thai curries, soups, and stir-fries. Be mindful when dining out or trying new cuisines.
Lupin: A Wheat Choice with Allergic risks
Lupin flour is often used as a gluten-free alternative to wheat flour.However, lupin contains proteins that can trigger allergic reactions, especially in individuals with legume allergies.
* Legume Family: Lupin belongs to the legume family (like peanuts, soybeans, and peas), so cross-reactivity is common.
* European Prevalence: lupin allergy is more prevalent in Europe, where lupin flour is widely used in baked goods.
* Labeling Requirements: In Europe,lupin must be clearly labeled as an allergen in food products.
* symptoms: Reactions can range from mild skin irritation to severe anaphylaxis. Individuals with peanut allergies should exercise caution.
Understanding Food Allergy Symptoms
Recognizing the signs of a food allergy is crucial for prompt treatment. Common symptoms include:
- Skin Reactions: Hives, eczema, itching, swelling.
- Gastrointestinal issues: Nausea,vomiting,diarrhea,abdominal pain.
- Respiratory Problems: Wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath, runny nose.
- Cardiovascular Symptoms: Dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting.
- Anaphylaxis: A severe, possibly life-threatening allergic reaction requiring immediate medical attention. Symptoms include difficulty breathing, swelling of the throat, and a sudden drop in blood pressure.
Managing Emerging Allergies: Practical Tips
* Strict Label Reading: Always carefully read food labels, even for products you’ve consumed before. ingredients can change.
* Restaurant Awareness: Inform restaurant staff about your allergies and inquire about ingredients and preparation methods.
* Carry Epinephrine: If you have a known food allergy, carry an epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen) and know how to use it.
* Allergy Testing: Consult with an allergist for accurate diagnosis and personalized management strategies. Skin prick tests and blood tests can help identify specific allergens.
* Food Challenges: Under medical supervision,a food challenge may be performed to confirm an allergy.
* Stay informed: Keep up-to-date on emerging allergens and food labeling regulations.
Real-World Exmaple: The Rise of Sesame Allergy Awareness
The advocacy efforts of food allergy organizations and individuals played a crucial role in the FASTER Act’s passage. parents shared stories of children experiencing severe reactions to sesame without knowing it was present in the food. This heightened awareness led to the mandatory labeling of sesame, providing greater protection for allergic individuals.
benefits of Early Allergy Detection
Early diagnosis and management of food allergies can considerably improve quality of life. Benefits include:
* Reduced Risk of Severe Reactions: Proactive management minimizes the chance of accidental exposure and severe allergic reactions.
* Improved Nutritional Status: Working with a registered dietitian can ensure adequate nutrient intake while avoiding allergens.
* enhanced Psychological Well-being: Knowing how to manage allergies reduces anxiety and improves overall
