Why are there so many chlidren developing peanut allergies now?

Answer 1

Probably no more than there ever were, only increased awareness makes it look like there's an epidemic.

Answer 2

I don't agree with the saying that there are no more people, it is just greater public awareness.

I have anaphylaxis and have been allergic to peanuts for 25 years. Back then hardly any one was, not many people even knew what anaphylaxis was.

One possibility is due to genetic engineering. There have been many studies done with taking genetic material from peanuts and implanting it into other food products, these other food products are supposedly safe for people with anaphylaxis. Studies are not sufficient in providing this information.

I am a scientist and have done such studies in GM foods, I know the risks as I have anaphylaxis. Ethically this is hard for many scientists, scientifically it is something that needs doing so we can gain a greater understanding into it.

All I can say is read your food labels, don't become complacent and say it won't hurt. . . it's just this once. For many people who suffer from this all it takes is the slightest trace and you could end up in a coffin.

Answer 3

The best answer: overall, increased awareness (publicity, on airplanes, at schools, etc.) !! Not at all sure there has been truly an increase in this allergic disease (as there truly has been for other Allergic diseases such as bronchial asthma and chronic sinus inflammatory disease for example!)...but it's a good thing, because it's the one food hypersensitivity that CAN AND DOES KILL!! Very potent allergen and a ubiquitous and often hidden ingredient in many dishes, sauces, cookies, etc. SO--if you're truly allergic vs. peanuts, strict label reading and carrying an Epi-pen (just as for venom hypersensitivity) are excellent ideas. GOOD LUCK!

Answer 4

I've read in baby books that people in other parts of the world don't have this problem. It's thought that here in North America, peanut allergies are so common because of the prevalent use of peanuts in our diets (e.g. peanut oil is commonly used for deep frying) and to the fact that we introduce foods containing peanuts or its oil so early in our children's lives.

Answer 5

One reason is that in most other countries, peanuts are served raw, mashed into things, stir fried, or boiled. When a peanut is roasted, it changes the protein binders, and those changes are usually the causes of allergic reactions.

Answer 6

Because we're evolving further and further away from our monkey roots.

Answer 7

That's what I wanna know! Why are we hearing about it all of a sudden?