Food allergies affect millions of people worldwide and can have a significant impact on daily life. During Food Allergy Awareness Week, we take the opportunity to raise awareness, improve understanding, and encourage safer, more supportive communities for those living with food allergies.
At Family Doctors Plus, we believe education is an important step in helping families recognise symptoms early, manage allergies safely, and know when to seek medical care.
What is a Food Allergy?
A food allergy occurs when the body’s immune system mistakenly identifies a food as harmful and reacts to it. Even a very small amount of the food can trigger symptoms.
Food allergies are becoming increasingly common, particularly in children, although adults can also develop allergies later in life.
Common Food Allergies
While almost any food can cause an allergic reaction, the most common food allergens include:
- Peanuts
- Tree nuts (such as cashews, almonds, walnuts)
- Dairy
- Eggs
- Seafood and shellfish
- Wheat
- Soy
- Sesame
Some people may only react to one food, while others can have multiple food allergies.
Signs and Symptoms of a Food Allergy
Food allergy symptoms can range from mild to severe and often appear within minutes to a few hours after eating the food.
Mild to moderate symptoms may include:
- Hives or skin rash
- Swelling of the lips, face, or eyes
- Tingling in the mouth
- Stomach pain, vomiting, or diarrhoea
- Sneezing or nasal congestion
In some cases, a food allergy can progress to a severe allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis.
What is Anaphylaxis?
Anaphylaxis is a serious, life-threatening allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention.
Symptoms of anaphylaxis can include:
- Difficulty breathing or noisy breathing
- Swelling of the tongue or throat
- Difficulty talking or a hoarse voice
- Wheezing or persistent coughing
- Dizziness or collapse
- Pale and floppy appearance in young children
Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency. If someone is experiencing symptoms:
- Administer adrenaline (if available, such as an EpiPen® or Anapen®)
- Call 000 immediately
- Lay the person flat (unless they are struggling to breathe)
- Seek urgent medical care
Food Allergy vs Anaphylaxis: What’s the Difference?
A food allergy refers to the immune system reacting to a food and may cause mild, moderate, or severe symptoms.
Anaphylaxis is the most severe form of allergic reaction. Not every food allergy causes anaphylaxis, but anyone with a food allergy may be at risk of developing a severe reaction.
Understanding the difference is important so families know when symptoms require emergency treatment.
Why Food Allergy Awareness Week Matters
Food Allergy Awareness Week helps raise understanding about the challenges faced by people living with food allergies every day.
For many families, food allergies affect school, childcare, social events, restaurants, travel, and everyday activities. Increased awareness can help create safer environments and reduce the risk of accidental exposure.
The week also encourages:
- Better recognition of allergic reactions
- Greater understanding of anaphylaxis
- Improved support for children and adults with allergies
- Conversations about allergy safety in schools, workplaces, and the community
When to See Your GP
It’s important to speak with your GP if you or your child experiences symptoms after eating certain foods.
Your GP can:
- Assess symptoms and medical history
- Arrange allergy testing if needed
- Develop an allergy management plan
- Provide advice about avoidance and emergency treatment
- Prescribe adrenaline devices when appropriate
Early assessment and management can help reduce anxiety and improve safety for individuals and families living with food allergies.
Supporting a Safer Community
Food allergies are more than just food preferences — they can be serious medical conditions. A little awareness and understanding can make a big difference in helping keep others safe.
If you have concerns about food allergies or would like advice about allergy management, the team at Family Doctors Plus is here to help.
For more information on Allergies and Anaphylaxis, visit ASCIA