Hidden sources of food allergens

Introduction

Introduction

Food allergies can cause severe reactions, so avoiding foods that cause them is critical. But it can be hard to know whether foods contain ingredients you're allergic to, especially when eating out. Knowing common hidden sources of food allergens can help.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has identified eight major food allergens:

• Milk
• Eggs
• Peanuts
• Tree nuts (such as almonds, cashew, walnuts)
• Fish (such as bass, cod, flounder)
• Shellfish (such as crab, lobster, shrimp)
• Soy
• Wheat

Click on the tabs to the left corresponding to the major food allergens to see some possible sources of hidden food allergens. This is not a complete list; ingredients and food preparation and processing vary.

Tree nuts

Hidden sources of tree nuts

• Flavorings. Natural and artificial flavorings may contain tree nuts.
• Mortadella. This type of smoked sausage, made of pork, beef, wine and spices, may also contain pistachio nuts.
• Other foods. Tree nuts may be used in many foods, including barbecue sauce, cereals, crackers and ice cream.
• Household items. Some toys and beanbags may be filled with stuffing made from crushed nut shells.