As a society, we are becoming more and more aware of food allergies and their impact on our lives. Food allergies can be severe and can cause serious health issues for those who suffer from them. In the workplace, food allergies can be especially problematic. It’s not always easy to know which foods are safe to eat, and even foods that seem innocuous can contain allergens. In this blog post, we will explore some of the lesser-known workplace food allergens that you should consider.

Wheat 🌾

Wheat allergies are one of the most common food allergies. For people with wheat allergies, consuming wheat or any food that contains wheat can cause a range of symptoms, including hives, asthma, and digestive issues. Wheat can be found in many foods that you might not expect, including soy sauce, beer, and salad dressings. If you have a wheat allergy, be sure to read food labels carefully and ask about the ingredients in any food that you aren’t sure about.

📷: A person holding a piece of bread and looking at it suspiciously

Shellfish 🦐

Shellfish allergies can be severe and can cause anaphylaxis, a life-threatening allergic reaction. If you have a shellfish allergy, you should avoid all types of shellfish, including shrimp, lobster, and crab. But it’s not just shellfish that can cause problems. Foods that are cooked in the same oil as shellfish, such as french fries or tempura, can also be dangerous for people with shellfish allergies. It’s important to educate your coworkers about your allergy so that they can help you avoid foods that might be harmful.

📷: A person sitting at a table with a plate of seafood in front of them and a red X over it

Tree Nut 🌳

Tree nuts are another common allergen. People with tree nut allergies should avoid all types of nuts, including almonds, cashews, and walnuts. In addition to nuts themselves, foods that contain nuts, such as granola bars and baked goods, can also be problematic. Many people with tree nut allergies also have peanut allergies, so it’s important to be aware of both.

📷: A person holding a bowl of mixed nuts and looking worried

Fish 🐟

Fish allergies can be severe and can cause anaphylaxis. If you have a fish allergy, you should avoid all types of fish, including tuna, salmon, and cod. It’s also important to be aware of other types of seafood, such as shellfish, which can cause cross-reactivity in some people with fish allergies. Some people with fish allergies may also need to avoid fish sauce, which is a common ingredient in many Asian dishes.

📷: A person holding a plate of sushi and looking unsure

Soy 🌱

Soy allergies are on the rise, and they can cause a range of symptoms, including hives, asthma, and digestive issues. Soy can be found in many foods, including tofu, soy milk, and soy sauce. Soy is also used as an additive in many processed foods, so it’s important to read labels carefully. Soy lecithin is a common additive that is found in many foods, including chocolate and baked goods.

📷: A person holding a container of soy beans and looking worried

Conclusion 🧐

Food allergies can be challenging to manage, especially in the workplace. By being aware of the lesser-known workplace food allergens, you can help create a safer and more inclusive environment for everyone. Remember to read food labels carefully, educate your coworkers about your allergy, and always carry an epinephrine auto-injector if you are at risk of anaphylaxis. Let’s work together to create a safer and more inclusive workplace for everyone!

📷: A group of people sitting at a table together, sharing a meal