Understanding Food Allergies in Kids

Food allergies are becoming increasingly common in children. Currently, nearly 8% of children under 5 have a food allergy.1,2 As a parent, it can feel overwhelming to know what’s normal, what’s not, and what steps to take to keep your child safe. Whether you are just starting to introduce new foods or already navigating a food allergy diagnosis, understanding the basics can help you feel more confident and prepared.

What Is a Food Allergy?

A food allergy happens when the immune system mistakes certain proteins in food as harmful and launches an attack. This reaction can trigger symptoms that range from mild (like hives or stomach upset) to severe and life-threatening (such as difficulty breathing or a drop in blood pressure).3
 Food allergies are not the same as food intolerances. For example, lactose intolerance can cause discomfort but is not life-threatening. However, an allergy to cow’s milk protein can trigger serious immune reactions.4

The Most Common Allergens in Children

While someone can develop an allergy to almost any food, certain foods are responsible for the majority (90%) of reactions2. In the United States, the “Top 9” allergens are milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts (such as almonds, cashews, walnuts), wheat, soy, fish, shellfish, and sesame.2,5

Food allergies are more common in young kids, particularly infants and toddlers. As kids get older, they can often outgrow allergies to common foods like milk, eggs, wheat, and soy. However, more severe allergies or allergies to nuts and shellfish are more likely to be lifelong.2,4

Signs and Symptoms to Watch Out For

Allergic reactions can look different for each child. Reactions usually occur within a few minutes to two hours after eating the allergen.3,4 Symptoms may include:

  • Skin: hives, redness, or swelling

  • Mouth/throat: itching, swelling of lips or tongue

  • Stomach: vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain

  • Respiratory: coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath

  • Severe (anaphylaxis): trouble breathing, dizziness, or loss of consciousness. This is a medical emergency.3,4

When to Seek Medical Help

If you notice any combination of symptoms after your child eats a new food, call your pediatrician. For severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, persistent vomiting, or swelling of the tongue/throat, get emergency treatment immediately.
 An allergist can help confirm whether your child has a food allergy through a detailed history, allergy testing, and sometimes supervised food challenges. Having a clear diagnosis is essential to guide safe food choices and treatment.4
 Food allergies can feel intimidating, but knowing the basics puts you one step closer to keeping your child safe and healthy.


References

  1. Elghoudi, A., & Narchi, H. (2022). Food allergy in children—the current status and the way forward. World Journal of Clinical Pediatrics, 11(3), 253–269. https://doi.org/10.5409/wjcp.v11.i3.253

  2. Food allergies in children and babies. (2025, March 20). Johns Hopkins Medicine. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/food-allergies-in-children

  3. Food Allergies: Causes, symptoms & treatment. (2025, June 2). ACAAI Patient. https://acaai.org/allergies/allergic-conditions/food/

  4. Food allergy - Symptoms and causes. (n.d.). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/food-allergy/symptoms-causes/syc-20355095

  5. Program, H. F. (2025, March 26). Food allergies. U.S. Food And Drug Administration. https://www.fda.gov/food/nutrition-food-labeling-and-critical-foods/food-allergies


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