Food allergies can come in many forms. Parents who want to protect their children from harm should brush up on things to know about oral allergy syndrome. From oral allergy syndrome to food intolerances, it’s essential to watch out for foods that can trigger your body’s immune system—no matter the severity.
An egg allergy is among the most common food allergies in young children and infants. Eggs are in many foods. Looking for foods without eggs can be tricky when you or your child is allergic to them. However, it’s important to note that most people with egg allergies react to egg whites, not the yolk. Allergic people shouldn’t eat either part, even if you separate them.
Avoiding egg solids, dried eggs, and egg powder would be best to be safe. To prevent allergic reactions and complications, here are foods to watch out for if you have an egg allergy.
What Is an Egg Allergy?
An egg allergy is a reaction to the proteins found in eggs. Your immune system reacts to the proteins mainly found in egg whites and triggers food allergy symptoms. These symptoms can be life-threatening or disruptive to everyday life.
Symptoms of a Food Allergy
Food allergy symptoms can develop five minutes or up to three days after eating foods that contain eggs. It’s also important to note that reactions can change from mild symptoms to severe rather quickly.
Like many food allergies, reacting to eggs can include:
- Hives
- Wheezing
- Itchy eyes, face, skin, and nose
- Tingling or pain in the lips and tongue
- Cramps
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
More severe symptoms include:
- Rapid heartbeat
- Weakness
- Difficulty breathing
- Difficulty swallowing or talking
- Drop in blood pressure
- Anxiety
- Distress
Foods Made With Eggs
When someone has an egg allergy, you must read the ingredient list on the food labels. If you’re at a restaurant, it’s essential to ask for modified dishes.
When reading food labels, you should know the other names for eggs, including:
- Lysozyme
- Lecithin
- Globulin
- Albumin
- Ovalbumin
- Ovovitellin
As you probably know, most breakfast foods, baked goods, and ice creams are made with eggs. However, you should know other surprising food items to watch out for if you have an egg allergy. These foods include:
- Marshmallows
- Meatloaf
- Meatballs
- Cappuccino
- Eggrolls
- Custards
- Waffles
- Crepes
- Salad dressings
- Pasta
- Some soups
- Wine
- Candy
- Egg substitutes
It’s also important to note that some vaccines like flu, yellow fever, and measles-mumps-rubella contain egg proteins, and you should consult your doctor before getting one to ensure that it’s safe.
If you suspect your child has an allergy to eggs, you should talk to your primary care or an ENT for tests to prevent reactions.
