Managing an egg allergy is something roughly 2% of children and parents have to cope with on a daily basis. There are many things that can be done, however, as with all allergies it can vary from person to person.

Of the 14 allergies, an egg allergy is one of the most common here in the UK. Life with an allergy can be debilitating, and simple pleasures such as eating out can be a daunting task. If you are unsure whether you suffer from an allergy it is always best to speak with your GP. Having that medical confirmation will ensure you are taking the right steps to manage your symptoms.

What is an egg allergy?

An egg allergy is an allergic reaction to eggs. The reaction happens when the protein in eggs, usually found in the egg whites, is ingested. The body creates histamines which fight off the protein. This is what causes the symptoms people experience which are referred to as allergic reactions.

How common is an egg allergy?

Having an egg allergy is more common in babies and young children. This is usually outgrown by the time they reach school age. However, in some cases the sensitivity is carried on well into adulthood. 

What are the symptoms of an egg allergy?

Symptoms of an egg allergy can vary from person to person. The severity of the reaction can depend on how sensitive someone is, symptoms can range from mild such as; red and raised skin (rashes), minor swelling of the mouth, throat, tongue etc. Others may be more severe and result in stomach pains, difficulty breathing, and anaphylaxis. In these cases medical intervention is required.

If you have any reaction after coming into contact with eggs which is unexpected or out of the ordinary, please seek medical advice.

How do you manage an egg allergy?

Depending on the severity of your allergy you may be able to ingest small amounts of egg, particularly when they have been fully cooked or combined with other ingredients. Others who have an extreme sensitivity to eggs would be best to avoid the ingredient altogether.

Eggs can be found in many foods, such as sauces as they can be the perfect solution to bind all ingredients together. Biscuits and cakes are another common food in which eggs are used in the baking process. Incorporating a vegan diet could be a safe substitute for those with an egg allergy.

For many dealing with an allergy is part of everyday life. Finding the right places to eat out can be a challenge in itself. If you have any concerns regarding the ingredients used within the menu it is best to speak with the chef or server.

As a business the way you handle the allergens in the foods you serve can make the difference for those who suffer. Make the experience easier on everyone with a simple and effective allergen management system. Contact us now or click here for your free trial.

The information provided in this blog is purely informational. Please speak to your GP for further information on any concerns you have regarding allergies. Sources for information are: https://midlandhealth.co.uk/2021/12/01/common-food-allergies-uk/