San Diego Food Allergy Litigation

Food allergies are adverse health effects arising from a specific immune response that occurs reproducibly on exposure to a given food. Here’s a comprehensive overview of food allergies:

How Food Allergies Work

Food allergies occur when the immune system mistakenly identifies a specific protein in food as harmful. This triggers an immune response, releasing various chemicals like histamine, which cause the symptoms of an allergic reaction.

Common Food Allergens

Food allergies are triggered by specific proteins in foods that the body’s immune system mistakenly identifies as harmful. The most common allergens include:

• Milk
  • Source: Cow’s milk and dairy products such as cheese, yogurt, and butter.
  • Common in: Infants and young children, though many outgrow this allergy by adulthood.
  • Note: Includes both casein (a protein found in solid milk) and whey (a protein found in liquid milk).
• Eggs
  • Source: Both the egg whites and yolks, though egg white proteins are more commonly allergenic.
  • Common in: Children, with many outgrowing the allergy by adolescence.
  • Note: Eggs are often hidden in various foods, so careful label reading is essential.
• Peanuts
  • Source: Peanuts, which are legumes and not true nuts.
  • Common in: Both children and adults, and this allergy is often lifelong.
  • Note: Highly allergenic and can cause severe reactions, including anaphylaxis.
• Tree Nuts
  • Source: Nuts from trees, such as almonds, walnuts, cashews, pistachios, pecans, hazelnuts, and Brazil nuts.
  • Common in: Both children and adults, and often lifelong.
  • Note: Cross-reactivity is common, so those allergic to one tree nut are often advised to avoid all tree nuts.
• Fish
  • Source: Various species of fish, including salmon, tuna, and halibut.
  • Common in: Both children and adults, and often lifelong.
  • Note: Allergic reactions can occur from inhaling cooking vapors or through skin contact with fish.
• Shellfish
  • Source: Crustaceans (such as shrimp, crab, and lobster) and mollusks (such as clams, mussels, oysters, and squid).
  • Common in: Adults more than children, and often lifelong.
  • Note: Shellfish allergy is one of the most common adult-onset food allergies.
• Soy
  • Source: Soybeans and soy products, including tofu, tempeh, soy milk, and soy sauce.
  • Common in: Infants and children, with many outgrowing the allergy by adulthood.
  • Note: Soy is a common ingredient in processed foods, so label reading is crucial.
• Wheat
  • Source: Wheat and wheat products, such as bread, pasta, and cereals.
  • Common in: Children, with many outgrowing the allergy by adulthood.
  • Note: Different from celiac disease and gluten sensitivity, which also involve adverse reactions to wheat.

Preventing Allergic Reactions

• Avoiding Known Allergens: The most effective way to prevent anaphylaxis is to avoid known allergens.
• Carrying Epinephrine Auto-Injectors: Individuals at risk should always carry one or more epinephrine auto-injectors.
• Educating Family and Friends: Ensuring that those around the individual know how to recognize the signs of anaphylaxis and administer epinephrine.
• Medical Identification: Wearing a medical ID bracelet or necklace that lists known allergies and informs responders about the risk of anaphylaxis.

Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency that requires prompt recognition and treatment. Understanding the signs and symptoms, as well as having an action plan in place, can save lives and prevent potential death.

San Diego Food Allergy Statistics

According to California food allergy claims made between 2009 and 2016, 54% of all claims were for a person under 18, 44% of claims were for adults aged 19-65, and individuals over 65 made up only 2% of claims. This could be because most food allergies will develop in early childhood. According to the National Health Interview Survey, the prevalence of food allergies decreases as a person ages, which could be another contributing factor.

In 2024, the FDA released a food recall statement due to an undeclared allergen. LQNN, Inc., which is based in San Diego’s neighboring county, Orange County, recalled 12 products that may have contained undeclared eggs. The Banh Ba Xa and varieties of Banh Pia were distributed across the United States and Canada.

Get In Touch

Don’t suffer in silence from food allergies caused by someone else’s negligence. These incidents can lead to significant health challenges, emotional distress, and financial hardships. You deserve to have your voice heard and to seek justice for the harm you’ve endured. At The Lange Law Firm, we are committed to standing by your side and providing the legal support you need during this difficult time.

Call The Lange Law Firm at (833) 330-3663 or message us online for a free consultation. Our experienced attorneys will take the time to listen to your story and understand the full impact of your suffering. We will thoroughly investigate your case, identifying those responsible and gathering the necessary evidence to build a strong claim on your behalf. Our team will work tirelessly to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve, including coverage for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any other damages you have experienced. Let us fight for your rights and help you regain control of your life.