Food allergies in children are more common than ever before, and as a parent, it can be daunting to navigate which foods might trigger a reaction. Whether it’s a mild rash or a life-threatening anaphylactic response, recognising the early signs of food allergies in children is critical. It allows for timely intervention, appropriate dietary adjustments, and most importantly—keeping your child safe.
In many cases, symptoms may be subtle at first, or confused with other common conditions like indigestion or colds. That’s why understanding the most common food allergies in kids and how to detect them early is key. In this blog, we’ll break down the top 8 culprits behind food allergies, explore the warning signs to look for, and explain how food allergy testing for kids works.
What Is a Food Allergy?
A food allergy occurs when a child’s immune system mistakenly sees a certain food as harmful. This triggers an immune response that can cause anything from skin irritation and digestive discomfort to difficulty breathing or a drop in blood pressure. Unlike food intolerances (which don’t involve the immune system), true food allergies can be dangerous and require strict management.
Food allergies can develop at any age, even in babies. Some children may outgrow them, while others may have lifelong sensitivities.
The Top 8 Common Food Allergies in Kids
While any food can technically cause an allergic reaction, 90% of reactions in children are caused by just eight foods:
1. Cow’s Milk
Common in: Babies and toddlers, especially after weaning off breastmilk or formula.
Signs to watch for:
- Vomiting or diarrhoea shortly after drinking milk
- Skin rash, eczema flare-ups
- Wheezing or nasal congestion
Note: Cow’s milk allergy is often outgrown by age 3–5.
2. Eggs
Common in: Children under 5
Typical reaction triggers: Mainly the proteins in egg whites (though yolks can also cause issues)
Signs to watch for:
- Hives or swelling around the mouth
- Respiratory symptoms like wheezing or coughing
- Stomach cramps or vomiting
Note: Many children eventually outgrow egg allergies, especially with medical guidance and food challenges.
3. Peanuts
Highly allergenic and often lifelong.
Signs to watch for:
- Rapid onset hives, swelling
- Trouble breathing or wheezing
- Anaphylaxis (severe and requires immediate treatment)
Note: Even trace amounts of peanuts can cause reactions, so strict avoidance is necessary.
4. Tree Nuts (Almonds, Cashews, Walnuts, etc.)
Often lifelong and highly reactive.
Signs to watch for:
- Facial swelling
- Itching of the tongue or lips
- Digestive upset or dizziness
Tip: Tree nuts are often found in baked goods, chocolates, and granola bars—always read labels.
5. Soy
Often found in: Formula milk, processed snacks, sauces
Signs to watch for:
- Runny nose and sneezing
- Skin reactions like hives or eczema
- Tummy aches or loose stools
Note: Soy allergy may be outgrown, and is often linked with cow’s milk allergy.
6. Wheat
Can trigger both allergies and non-allergic conditions like celiac disease.
Signs to watch for:
- Swelling of lips or throat
- Eczema or rash flare-ups
- Gastrointestinal symptoms like bloating or diarrhoea
Note: Avoiding gluten may help until formal diagnosis is confirmed.
7. Fish
Includes: Salmon, cod, tuna, etc.
Signs to watch for:
- Lip and facial swelling
- Breathing difficulties
- Itching or red patches on the skin
Tip: Fish allergies are usually lifelong and can be triggered even by steam or smell during cooking.
8. Shellfish
Includes: Shrimp, crab, lobster
Signs to watch for:
- Throat tightness or hoarseness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Severe reactions like anaphylaxis
Note: This allergy often persists into adulthood and tends to be more serious than others.
Early Signs of Food Allergies in Children
Recognising the early signs of a food allergy can make all the difference in preventing serious reactions. Symptoms may occur within minutes to a few hours after eating the food. Keep an eye out for:
- Skin symptoms: Hives, rashes, eczema flare-ups
- Digestive issues: Vomiting, diarrhoea, stomach pain
- Respiratory symptoms: Coughing, sneezing, wheezing
- Oral symptoms: Itching in the mouth or swelling of lips/tongue
- Behavioural changes: Irritability, fatigue, refusal to eat
Severe Symptoms to Watch Closely:
- Difficulty breathing
- Drop in blood pressure
- Loss of consciousness
These may signal anaphylaxis, a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment with epinephrine.
How to Detect Food Allergies in Kids
If you suspect a food allergy, don’t rely on guesswork or elimination diets alone. Formal allergy testing is the safest and most accurate way to confirm or rule out food allergies.
1. Medical History & Symptom Diary
Start by keeping a detailed log of your child’s symptoms, including:
- What they ate
- When symptoms started
- How long the symptoms lasted
- Any other possible exposures (e.g., pollen, pets)
This information is helpful for the doctor to identify potential allergens and patterns.
2. Skin Prick Testing
A small amount of suspected allergen is applied to the skin, usually the forearm or back. If your child is allergic, a raised bump or redness will appear at the site within 15–20 minutes.
Good for: Quick results, common allergens
Note: Should be done under medical supervision
3. Specific IgE Blood Test
This test measures the presence of allergen-specific antibodies in the blood. It can help confirm a diagnosis and assess the risk of severe reactions.
Good for: Children with eczema or skin conditions that prevent skin testing
Note: Results must be interpreted by an experienced allergist.
4. Oral Food Challenges (OFC)
Conducted in a controlled clinic setting, OFCs involve gradually feeding small amounts of the suspected allergen to observe for reactions. It’s considered the gold standard for diagnosing food allergies.
Good for: Confirming whether a child has outgrown an allergy or tolerating small quantities
Note: Should only be done by trained professionals in a medical facility equipped to handle emergencies.
When to See a Specialist
If your child shows repeated symptoms after eating certain foods, don’t delay a consultation. A paediatric allergist like Dr. Mahesh Katre can provide expert guidance through:
- Comprehensive allergy testing
- Interpreting results accurately
- Building a personalised treatment or elimination plan
- Advising on emergency management (like epinephrine auto-injectors)
Conclusion
Food allergies in kids can feel overwhelming, but early recognition and accurate testing can make a world of difference. By understanding the common food allergies in kids, recognising the early signs of food allergies in children, and knowing how to detect food allergies in kids, you can help your child stay healthy, safe, and confident in their everyday choices.
For professional guidance and food allergy testing for kids in Dubai, contact Dr. Mahesh Katre—UK-trained paediatric allergist with years of experience helping families navigate food allergies with care and confidence.
📞 Call +971 55 232 9107 to book an appointment today.