Food allergy affects approximately 5–8% of children in the UK. As a Consultant Paediatrician with a special interest in allergy, I see children with a wide range of food allergies. This article provides an overview of the most common food allergies in children — their symptoms, diagnosis and management.
The Most Common Food Allergens in Children
The UK's Food Standards Agency identifies 14 major allergens that must be declared on food labels. In children, the most common food allergens are:
1. Cow's Milk
Cow's milk allergy is the most common food allergy in infants, affecting approximately 2–3% of babies. It can present as immediate reactions (hives, vomiting, wheeze) or delayed reactions (eczema, reflux, colic, loose stools). Most children outgrow cow's milk allergy by the age of 3–5 years. See: Cow's Milk Allergy
2. Egg
Egg allergy affects approximately 1–2% of young children. It most commonly presents with hives and vomiting, and is often associated with eczema. Many children outgrow egg allergy by school age. Some children tolerate well-cooked egg (baked egg) but react to lightly cooked or raw egg. See: Egg Allergy
3. Peanut
Peanut allergy affects approximately 1–2% of children and is one of the most common causes of anaphylaxis. Unlike milk and egg allergy, peanut allergy tends to persist into adulthood in the majority of cases. Early introduction of peanut in infancy is now recommended to reduce the risk of developing peanut allergy. See: Peanut Allergy
4. Tree Nuts
Tree nut allergy (including walnut, cashew, almond, hazelnut, pecan, pistachio and Brazil nut) is common in children with peanut allergy, though the two are not always related. Tree nut allergy can cause severe reactions and often persists into adulthood.
5. Wheat
Wheat allergy (distinct from coeliac disease, which is an autoimmune condition) can cause immediate allergic reactions including hives, vomiting and wheeze. It is less common than milk and egg allergy and is often outgrown.
6. Soy
Soy allergy is most common in infants, often alongside cow's milk allergy. It typically presents with delayed reactions (reflux, colic, loose stools) rather than immediate reactions. Most children outgrow soy allergy.
7. Fish and Shellfish
Fish and shellfish allergy can cause severe reactions and tends to persist into adulthood. It is less common in young children but becomes more prevalent in older children and adults.
8. Sesame
Sesame allergy is increasingly recognised as a significant cause of food allergy in children. It can cause severe reactions and often persists into adulthood.
Symptoms of Food Allergy
Food allergy symptoms can affect multiple body systems and typically occur within minutes to two hours of eating the trigger food:
- Skin: Hives, swelling, eczema flares
- Gut: Vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhoea
- Respiratory: Runny nose, wheeze, difficulty breathing
- Cardiovascular: Dizziness, drop in blood pressure (in severe reactions)
- Anaphylaxis: Severe, life-threatening reaction involving multiple body systems
When to Seek Specialist Assessment
If you suspect your child has a food allergy, specialist assessment is the best way to get a clear diagnosis and management plan. No GP referral is required to see me at Belfast Children's Allergy Clinic.
See also: Food Allergy Assessment in Children | Does My Child Need Allergy Testing?
Dr Mugilan Anandarajan, Consultant Paediatrician (FRCPCH, MD). Also see: belfastallergyclinic.com | belfastchildrensclinic.com