Common Food Allergies and Symptoms
Working in the food service industry exposes you to the many different food allergies that people have to be concerned with when ordering off a menu. It’s important to become food handler certified so you’re knowledgeable regarding various food allergies and able to spot potential symptoms impacting your customers. This is tremendously important because as a food handler you play a vital role in keeping your customers safe, especially those who are more vulnerable due to food allergies. Keep reading to learn life saving tips that come with Food Handler’s certification.
What Are Symptoms of Food Allergies?
When a person’s immune system rejects or overreacts to a certain food or food ingredient, this response is called a food allergy. Symptoms of food allergies can be small or catastrophic. It is important to understand that reactions may not have the same severity each time. Some key symptoms of food allergies are:
- Anaphylaxis
- Vomiting
- Stomach Cramps
- Repetitive Cough
- Weakened Pulse
- Pale coloring of Skin,
- Dizziness
Keep in mind that the most life-threatening symptom of food allergies is anaphylaxis. It impairs breathing and sends the whole body into shock.
What Are the Different Food Allergies?
1. Dairy
More specifically, this food allergy refers to cow’s milk. Dairy allergies are one of the most common childhood allergies that mainly impacts babies and toddlers. Most children outgrow this allergy by the age of 3, and it’s less common in adults. Should this allergy persist, the only real solution is to avoid foods like:
- Milk
- Cheese
- Butter
- Margarine
- Yogurt
- Ice Cream
2. Nut Allergies
Nut allergies are another common food allergy that affects a good portion of the Earth’s population. People with one tree nut allergy are often warned to avoid food with tree nuts in general because the chances of being allergic to another nut in the family is increased. Another reason for this is cross-contamination from different types of nuts being processed in the same area. Nut allergies are often extremely severe and can quickly result in anaphylaxis-related death.
3. Shellfish
Shellfish allergies occur because the body rejects proteins found in the shellfish family. Shellfish allergy symptoms usually surface quickly and are similar to other allergies like dairy products. The issue with this allergy is that it is hard to distinguish an allergic reaction from a reaction due to bacteria or parasites. Shellfish include:
- Shrimp
- Prawns
- Crayfish
- Lobster
- Scallops
- Squid
4. Wheat Allergies
This allergy is generally confused with celiac disease and gluten sensitivity. It usually impacts children and results in digestive stress and in some cases, anaphylaxis. People with legitimate wheat allergies have to only avoid foods that contain wheat. They do not have to go on a gluten-free diet. This is a particular allergy that requires a professional diagnosis.
The List Goes On: Learn it Well with Certified On The Fly
Remember, any food has the potential to cause allergies. There are even people out there who are allergic to fresh fruits and vegetables. Whether allergies are common or uncommon, as a professional food handler you need to be aware of them and know how to deal with them. Get up to date on your food allergy information by becoming food handler certified with us. Register with Certified On The Fly for a quick, affordable online course. Get certified from home or from your phone today.
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