A food allergy is an immune system response where the body
mistakes an ingredient in food, usually a protein, as harmful
and creates antibodies to fight it. As the antibodies battle
the 'invading' food, allergy symptoms develop. Most true allergies
to foods are uncommon and problems are more likely to result
from intolerance rather than allergy.
Among the symptoms of food allergy are rash or hives, nausea,
stomach pain, diarrhea, itchy skin, shortness of breath, chest
pain, swelling of the airways to the lungs and anaphylaxis.
Food intolerance, on the other hand is a digestive system
response rather than an immune system response. It occurs
when something in a food irritates a person's digestive system
or when a person is unable to properly digest or breakdown
the food. It is believed to result from sensitivities to both
natural and added food chemicals.
Symptoms of food intolerance include nausea, stomach pain,
gas, cramps or bloating, vomiting, heartburn, diarrhea, headaches
and irritability or nervousness.
All-in-all, food allergies usually affect about 2 to 4% of
adults and 6 to 8% of children. Food intolerances are much
more common. In fact, nearly everyone at one time has had
an unpleasant reaction to something they ate.
Most people with food allergies or intolerances will be put
on an elimination diet. It may be difficult to stop eating
some foods, such as those made with wheat or milk.
Fortunately, there are many foods on the market that substitute
for the more common allergy-provoking foods. The WORLDFOODS
products range tries to steer clear from possible allergens.
Our food products range does not contain nuts, milk, eggs,
soy, wheat and seafood. It is also free from artificial flavours,
colourings and MSG. Our products are also suitable for vegans,
vegetarians and coeliacs.
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