The Truth About Soy Allergies

Food allergies and intolerances affect millions of Americans. Nearly any food can trigger an allergic reaction, but there are nine common foods that cause the majority of reactions. While soybeans are among the nine most common allergens, they have the second lowest prevalence rate. Read on for the truth about soy allergies.

Food allergies occur when your immune system has a negative reaction to the protein in a food you’re allergic to. Foods that can trigger an allergic reaction are known as allergens. The symptoms of a food allergy range from hives and lip swelling to more severe, life-threatening symptoms, such as anaphylaxis. While there are some treatments and interventions for allergies, there isn’t a known cure. Most people manage their allergies by avoiding the foods they’re allergic to.

The Big Nine Allergens

While over 170 different foods have reportedly caused allergies, the majority of allergies are caused by the following nine foods:


Milk

Milk

Eggs

Eggs

Fish

Fish

Crustacean Shellfish

Crustacean Shellfish

Tree Nuts

Tree Nuts

Peanuts

Peanuts

Wheat

Wheat

Soybeans

Soybeans

Sesame Seeds

Sesame Seeds

Soy Allergies Explained

The food industry uses soy protein frequently in products such as plant-based burgers, protein bars, fortified cereals and more. Thankfully, soy allergies have the second lowest prevalence rate, despite soybeans being in The Big Nine allergens. Out of the nine major allergens, soy has one of the lowest prevalence. People are more likely to be allergic to milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, or wheat than they are to soy.

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