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Major Food Allergens Explained: The Top 9

Learn about the major food allergens worth checking for on food labels.

Milk (Dairy)

One of the most common food allergies in children, and one that often naturally resolves with age. It stems from an immune reaction to milk proteins, which is a different mechanism than lactose intolerance, an inability to digest lactose (milk sugar).

Eggs

A common food allergy in children, most often caused by proteins found in the egg white. In many cases, the allergy is known to resolve with age.

Fish

Classified separately from shellfish allergies. Once it develops, it often persists into adulthood and typically requires lifelong management.

Shellfish (Shrimp, Crab, etc.)

Allergies to shellfish like shrimp, crab, and lobster are a leading food allergy that frequently develops newly in adulthood, and tend to be lifelong once they appear.

Tree Nuts (Almonds, Walnuts, etc.)

An allergy to tree nuts such as almonds, walnuts, and cashews. Reactions can be severe, making this a major allergen that requires careful label-checking.

Peanuts

Botanically a legume rather than a tree nut, but managed separately due to its distinct allergic profile. It is one of the leading causes of severe, whole-body allergic reactions (anaphylaxis).

Sesame

A relatively recently recognized major allergen. In the United States, sesame joined eggs, milk, and others on the list of the top 9 allergens requiring mandatory food labeling starting in 2023.

Wheat

A wheat allergy β€” an immune reaction to proteins found in wheat β€” is a distinct condition from celiac disease (an autoimmune disorder) and gluten sensitivity (a digestive issue).

Soybeans

A relatively common food allergy in infants and young children. Soy appears widely in processed foods in forms like soybean oil and soy lecithin, making label-checking especially important.

Why Do Allergen Labels Matter?

Food allergies can range from mild hives to life-threatening anaphylaxis. Because of this, many countries legally require major allergens to be labeled on packaging, and checking ingredient labels on local food is especially important while traveling abroad.

Labeling Standards Vary by Country

Standards differ somewhat by country β€” the United States designates 9 major allergens (milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, soybeans, and sesame), while the European Union mandates labeling for an even longer list of 14 allergens.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can this information replace a medical diagnosis?

No β€” this page is general educational content introducing common food allergy facts. Actual allergy diagnosis and management should always be handled by a medical professional.

Are food allergy and food intolerance the same thing?

No. A food allergy is an immune system reaction that treats a specific protein as a threat, while a food intolerance (such as lactose intolerance) is a digestive issue caused by a lack of the enzyme needed to break down a specific substance β€” the two are distinct concepts.