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ALLERGENS:
 Some people have allergies to foods ... all sorts of foods - eggs, milk products, soy, seafood, tomatoes, wheat and yes, peanuts. Research identifies that approximately 1-2 per cent of the population is allergic to peanuts. These people have sensitivities ranging from a rash to anaphylaxis. PCA recommends that parents be aware of a wide range of potential allergies, the methods of response and treatment, and of diet management. And if you have a food allergy yourself, think "AAA" - Awareness, Avoidance and Adrenalin. While PCA continues to work closely with national and international scientists and food management associations to develop and test methods of lessening and managing allergic reactions to peanuts, we are also working with schools and parent associations to educate people about allergens ... all sorts of allergens.  PCA Fact Sheet About Allergens (63kb PDF) Latest Allergen Research (53kb PDF) Allergy information on other websites
Food Allergy - What Is It?
 An allergic reaction occurs when the body's immune system responds to an otherwise harmless food protein by flooding the body with histamines to fight off the "invader".
Symptoms vary but include rashes, hives, eczema, nausea, diarrohea, vomiting, sneezing, a runny nose and shortness of breath.
Very rarely, people with food allergies can suffer a severe and potentially fatal anaphylactic reaction with a narrowing of airways, lowering of blood pressure, swelling of the tongue and throat and severely restricted breathing. In susceptible individuals, this reaction can be triggered by even the smallest trace of the offending protein.
Allergies should not be confused with food intolerances which do not involve the immune system. Common symptoms of food intolerances include headaches, stomach pains etc. Food intolerances do not cause the severe reactions that allergies can.  Peanut Allergy Peanut allergy rarely develops in later life and it is usually young children that are most at risk. It has been estimated that peanut allergy affects just 1-2 per cent of the population. For this group of Australians, it is important they develop the systems and network support to manage the risk of peanut exposure. To assist in this process, Australians are fortunate to have immunology specialists at key hospitals and a national volunteer support group: Anaphylaxis Australia (formerly known as FACTS) If there is a family history of allergies, it is recommended that parents delay introducing peanut products (including peanut butter) until the age of 3 or 4. If you suspect your child has an allergy to peanuts, make sure you consult a doctor for correct diagnosis and advice. - The Peanut Company of Australia is a foundation member of the Allergen Bureau and is committed to sharing information and experience on the management of food allergens to ensure consumers receive relevant, consistent and easy-to-understand information on food allergens.
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