Reactions and near misses to food in children and adults with food hypersensitivities

This report presents findings from research conducted by Aston University on behalf of the Food Standards Agency (FSA). The FSA is the independent government department responsible for protecting public health and consumers’ interests in relation to food across England, Wales and Northern Ireland. The FSA is responsible for allergen labelling, and for providing guidance to consumers with food allergies, food intolerances or coeliac disease (referred to collectively as food hypersensitivities (FHS)). This includes working with consumers and the food industry to ensure consumers with FHS can make safe and informed choices. Eating a food which you are sensitive to, can result in an adverse reaction with unpleasant and sometimes life-threatening symptoms. Management of FHS therefore involves individuals being aware of risks and determining if a food is safe to eat. The objective of this research was to understand the circumstances that could lead to reactions and near misses to food or drink in people with FHS. This research explores the reactions and near misses that have taken place in the last five years in adults and children with either self or medically diagnosed FHS, in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. Findings will add to the evidence base in this area and inform the FSA’s food hypersensitivity programme. Specific research aims were to: 1. Characterise reactions and near misses. For example, the type of business the food was purchased from and what type of food was involved (loose or packaged). 2. Understand the ‘journey’ which resulted in a reaction or near miss. For example, how the food was purchased and the provision of allergen information and disclosure of FHS. 3. Identify the self-reported cause(s) of reactions and near misses.