Understanding Food Allergies
True or False: You can completely cure a food allergy by avoiding that food for a few months.
False
What is 1 mild symptom of a food allergy?
Hives, itchy skin, stomach pain, runny nose, red or watery eyes, and sneezing.
True or False: If you’re allergic to nuts, it’s safe to eat foods with nuts if you just pick the nuts off.
False
True or False: Canada has an agency that checks food labels for safety.
True
What happens when someone eats a food they’re allergic to?
Their body thinks it’s dangerous and reacts.
What is 1 serious symptom of an allergic reaction (anaphylaxis)?
Trouble breathing, swelling of throat or tongue, dizziness, drop in blood pressure, fainting, chest tightness.
What does “cross contact” mean?
When an allergen touches safe food.
Name a food that doesn’t need a label.
Fruits, vegetables, and some bakery items.
Name 3 foods that many people are allergic to.
Peanuts, tree nuts, almonds, cashews, hazelnut, macadamia, sesame seeds, milk, eggs, etc.
What should you use during a severe allergic reaction?
An EpiPen (Epinephrine Auto-Injector).
*(Double Points if you said Epinephrine Auto-Injector)*
Give one way to avoid cross-contact.
Wash hands, use clean boards, counters, and utensils.
What must a food label always show?
Ingredients and allergens.
What system in your body reacts when you have a food allergy?
The immune system.
After using an EpiPen, what should you do right away?
Call 911 and be examined by a medical professional.
What does “may contain” mean on a food label?
The food could have small traces of the allergen.
What does “priority allergen” mean?
One of the main foods/ingredients that must be listed on labels.
What is the name of the for a very serious allergic reaction?
Anaphylaxis
Where on the body do you use an EpiPen (be specific)?
On the outer thigh.
What is the difference between cross-contact and cross-contamination?
Cross-contact involves allergen proteins, while cross-contamination involves germs and bacteria.
What law makes sure food labels are safe and clear in Canada?
The Food and Drug Act.