Yes my friends, you read that well!!! An average of 2.5% of the world population has some kind of food allergy!
In some parts of the world...we even have up to 10% people living with it! The USA as example!
This number is on the rise and these days...more and more children are being diagnosed with food allergies.
But what is food allergy???
Let me try explain it in simple terms:
When your body identifies proteins in food as enemies...protective measures are launched (by your body) to fight back, hence causing inflammation and other types of reactions.
What are the most common allergy symptoms???
- Vomiting and/or diarrhea
- Rashes on the skin.
- Itching and tingling in the mouth or throat.
- Shortness of breath
- Anaphylaxis - The most dangerous of all, which can be life-threatening!)
What are the most common food allergies???
- Milk (inlc. Butter, ice cream, yogurt, cheese)
- Peanuts ( Be super careful here...they are found in many many foods...check the label well before consuming!)
- Shellfish (Shrimps, prawns, lobsters, crayfish, oysters etc...)
- Wheat (Just imagine the bakery counter!)
- Soy (Energy bars, infant formula, canned food etc...)
Can food allergy be cured???
There's no definite answer here, scientists are still working and studying...
Some allergies may disappear over time...while others are here to stay till your last breath!
The best cure is to avoid foods that you are allergic to, at all cost! It's a question of life, never forget!
Always read all food labels properly and if you are doubtful...better avoid it.
And why I am writing on food allergies today???
Well my friends, having worked in the food industry for more than than 18 yrs now, I've met/talked/discussed with so many guests coming from different parts of the world having all kinds of allergies.
It was always challenging to prepare food to people having allergies...not gonna lie!
My advice to food producers and chefs
When you have to deal with someone who needs special attention/care due to dietary conditions, never take a chance!
You have to be committed and take utmost precautions and respect all the requirements. Never ever compromise!
It's either you do it properly, or simply let the guest know that you can't.
We can't play with people's life!
And the reason WHY I am writing on food allergies today is that...earlier I met with someone having a 'special type of food allergy'!
Like I said above...no risk taking ever! I prepared the client's food myself with all precautions!
This is the only foods that the guest could consume from the 100s of ingredients available in my restaurant!
I could feel the pain of that guest!
Made a simple salad with all of the ingredients and the guest left super happy without any bad reaction!
I'll share the salad on my foodies post later on!
Do check it out!
Do you have any type of allergy?
What do you do as precautions in your day to day life?
Please so share your views on the theme...sharing is caring!
ššš
This is my first contribution to the Stemsocial community! I hope to be within the guidelines!