A Message to Parents About Food Allergies

According to the FDA, up to 6% of children in the United States under age 3 have food allergies.While less common in adults, food allergies affect nearly 4 million people. Eight common allergens account for 90% of all reactions. They  are: peanuts, tree nuts (such as walnuts and cashews), milk, eggs, fish, shellfish (such as shrimp), soy, and wheat.

With a food allergy, the body reacts as though that particular food product is harmful. As a result, chemicals trigger allergic symptoms that can affect the respiratory system, gastrointestinal tract, skin, or cardiovascular system. In severe allergies, these symptoms can be life-threatening.

People often confuse food allergies with food intolerance.  Food intolerance can be caused by a person's inability to digest certain substances, such as lactose and doesn't involve the immune system. It can be unpleasant but is rarely dangerous.

To protect the safety of students with Food Allergies, PCSD has a Food Allergy Management Plan in place which emphasizes education of students and staff in promoting a positive and supportive school environment.

At MCE we educate staff, students, and parents using resources from the Food Allergy Network using their PAL (Protect a Life) Program.  Forms for students with food allergies can be downloaded from the Forms page.  If you have questions regarding Food Safety or Allergy Management please contact the MCE Health Office at 267-1440.

For more information on Food Allergy Management and Resources for Parents: