BASICS
What system in the body is responsible for food allergies? (K)
The immune system.
Name two mild symptoms of a food allergy. (K)
Hives, itching, stomach pain, swelling.
Can hand sanitizer remove food allergens effectively? (K, T)
No.
Name one way to prevent cross-contact in the kitchen. (T, A)
Use separate utensils or colour-coded cutting boards.
Where is an epinephrine auto-injector injected? (K)
The outer thigh.
What is the most severe allergic reaction called? (K)
Anaphylaxis.
Difficulty breathing is a sign of what severe reaction? (K)
Anaphylaxis.
What is cross-contamination? (K, C)
When allergen particles transfer from one food or surface to another.
What should you always do before serving food to someone with allergies? (T, A)
Read the ingredient label.
After using epinephrine, what should you always do? (K)
Call 911.
Name five of the top 9 common food allergens. (K)
Peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, wheat, soy, fish, shellfish, sesame.
True or False: If someone had a mild reaction before, their next reaction will also be mild. (K)
False.
Give one example of cross-contamination in the kitchen. (K, A)
Using the same knife or cutting board without washing it.
Why are buffet-style meals risky for people with allergies? (T, A)
Serving utensils are often shared between dishes.
What medication is used first to treat anaphylaxis? (K)
Epinephrine.
What type of antibody is involved in most food allergies? (K)
IgE (Immunoglobulin E).
Why is throat swelling especially dangerous during an allergic reaction? (T, A)
It can block airflow and prevent breathing.
Does cooking destroy most food allergens? (T, A)
No.
How did early peanut introduction reduce allergy development in high-risk infants? (T, A)
Regular early exposure helped the immune system tolerate the protein.
Why should schools and kitchens have written emergency action plans? (T, C)
To ensure fast, organized, and consistent responses during a crisis.
Approximately what percentage of Canadians have food allergies? (K)
About 7–8%.
Why are teenagers at higher risk for fatal allergic reactions? (T, A)
They are more likely to take risks, eat outside the home, or delay treatment.
Why are shared fryers dangerous for people with allergies? (T, A, C)
Oil can contain allergen particles from previous foods.
Why must allergen exposure be consistent in early childhood to reduce risk? (T, A, C)
Because research shows sustained exposure lowers the chance of developing allergies.
Why should a second dose of epinephrine sometimes be given? (T, A)
If symptoms continue or return after the first dose.