Photo Credit: Allergy Amulet Though cross-contact and cross-contamination sound similar, they are very different, especially when it comes to food allergies. Knowing the difference is crucial to understanding what you should protect yourself from. Cross-Contact Cross-contact happens when allergens are transferred from one object to another, usually unintentionally. Many people used to know this as cross-contamination, which is part of the problem. Since proteins cause food allergens, they...

Eating out is one of the toughest parts of having food allergies; you have to be constantly alert, know what you're eating, and double-check everything. While eating out with food allergies can be cumbersome and occasionally distressing, there are ways to make it significantly more enjoyable. Disclaimer: These tips are intended for general preparation, and since each individual's circumstances vary, take them with your experience and allergens in mind. 1. Always Bring Epinephrine This is by...

What is a Food Allergy? A food allergy is an immune system disorder in which the body identifies proteins in certain foods as dangerous and produces antibodies (usually Immunoglobulin E/IgE) that trigger the release of histamine. This reaction can cause symptoms ranging from mild itching or hives to severe and life-threatening anaphylaxis. Food allergies are not intolerances. The immune system does not cause intolerances (such as lactose intolerance) and is not life-threatening. Photo...