Living with a life-threatening food allergy often entails relying on allergy-free alternatives. However, the increasing cost of food has resulted in consumers paying significantly more for these alternatives. According to a study conducted by Allergy UK, the cost-of-living crisis has led to allergy-free foods being priced at over double the cost of their allergen-filled counterparts. The study, which examined nine different foods, found that these alternatives can cost up to 138% more.
In addition, a study by the Food Standards Agency revealed that individuals with allergies face a financial burden that is 12% to 27% higher than those without allergies. Theresa Macphail, a medical anthropologist and author, expressed her concerns about the impact of rising grocery bills on allergy families and individuals, stating, “Bigger grocery bills – from more expensive products – can take a toll on allergy families and individuals alike.”
To address the issue of unexpected allergic reactions, one apparent solution for manufacturers is to produce allergen-free foods in separate facilities to eliminate the possibility of cross-contamination. Some companies even go a step further by conducting regular spot sampling for allergens on the manufacturing floor to ensure the safety of their products.
Aside from the cost of food products, EpiPens also contribute to the financial burden for those with allergies. According to the charity Spare Pens in Schools, schools in the UK must purchase spare Adrenaline auto-injectors (AAIs) as a retail item, and pharmacies are not obligated to provide them. Central or local authorities do not offer any funds to cover these costs.
The prevalence of allergies is increasing worldwide, with many of them posing life-threatening risks. However, the exact cause is still unknown despite numerous theories. Macphail suggests that it could be a combination of factors, including changes in eating habits, decreased exposure to friendly bacteria and viruses, increased exposure to pollutants and chemicals, and sedentary lifestyles. The theory that has gained the most traction in the scientific community is the ‘microbiome and its related barrier hypothesis,’ which suggests that the immune cells lining our barriers are not being adequately exposed to beneficial microorganisms.
In recent years, more allergens have been added to the list of common food allergies. Apart from the “big 8” allergens (milk, eggs, fish, Crustacean shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, and soybeans), sesame has been included. Additionally, a new problem has emerged with alpha-gal in red meat triggering allergic reactions in some individuals due to Lone Star tick bites.
In summary, the rising cost of living, particularly in relation to food, has resulted in heightened financial burdens for individuals with food allergies. Manufacturers can help mitigate allergic reactions by producing allergen-free foods in separate facilities and conducting regular testing. The cause of the increasing prevalence of allergies remains unclear, but various factors such as changes in diet, exposure to pollutants, and sedentary lifestyles are believed to play a role. As more allergens are identified, it is crucial for individuals with allergies and the food industry to adapt and provide suitable alternatives.
