Summer 4th, Unusual Hazards to the Food Supply

These flashcards cover the key concepts related to food allergies, chemical and physical hazards to the food supply, and the role of additives, antibiotics, and growth hormones in food safety.

What is the main mechanism behind food allergies?

Food allergies are mediated mainly by an immunoglobulin E (IgE) mechanism.

When do food allergies usually occur?

Food allergies usually occur within the first two years of life.

What are common symptoms of food allergies?

Symptoms include skin rash, respiratory difficulties, vomiting, diarrhea, and tingling or swelling in the mouth and throat.

What serious condition can food allergies lead to?

Anaphylactic shock.

How is sensitization to food allergens acquired?

Sensitization usually occurs in the gastrointestinal tract through ingestion of foods containing the allergen.

What is the hygiene hypothesis related to food allergies?

The hygiene hypothesis suggests that cleaner living conditions may lead to an immune system less capable of tolerating allergens.

What percentage of children have food allergies?

Approximately 4-6% of children have food allergies.

What foods are most commonly responsible for allergies?

Peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, wheat, soy, fish, and shellfish.

Which food allergy is known to cause more serious reactions than others?

Peanut allergy causes more serious reactions than all other food allergies combined.

What is the difference between milk allergy and lactose intolerance?

A milk allergy involves an immune response to milk proteins, while lactose intolerance is due to a lack of lactase enzyme.

What is the percentage of children allergic to milk under 3 years old?

2.5% of children under 3 years old are allergic to milk.

What is celiac disease?

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disease that damages the small intestine due to gluten.

What are common symptoms of non-celiac gluten sensitivity?

Common symptoms include abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, or constipation without small intestine damage.

What is the purpose of adding preservatives to food?

Preservatives help food resist spoilage.

Name a common preservative.

Common preservatives include citric acid, sodium benzoate, and BHA.

What are BHA and BHT used for?

BHA and BHT are added to prevent rancidity in foods.

What are the major concerns associated with the use of antibiotics in feed animals?

Allergic reactions, development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, and animal welfare concerns.

What does rbGH stand for?

Recombinant bovine growth hormone.

What is the purpose of growth hormones in the food industry?

Growth hormones are used to promote growth and increase the leanness of meats.

What is the concern with trace amounts of hormones in meat?

Concerns that trace amounts may lead to early puberty.

How much can the use of growth hormones increase food yield in cattle?

Growth hormones can increase food yield by 10-15%.

True or False: Growth hormones are approved for use in poultry.

False; growth hormones are not approved for use in poultry.

What are artificial flavors?

Artificial flavors are created in a laboratory using chemicals.

What is MSG and what is it used for?

Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is added to enhance the flavor of foods.

What is the outcome of excess use of antibiotics in animals?

Over-use leads to the development of antibiotic-resistant organisms.

Which food is commonly fortified with Vitamin D?

Milk is commonly fortified with Vitamin D.

What are some examples of common food colorings?

Examples include FD&C Blue Nos 1 and 2, FD&C Red Nos 3 and 40.

What is important about the labeling of foods containing potential allergens?

Labeling is required to prevent illnesses related to food allergies.

What is the purpose of functional additives in food?

Functional additives improve food texture, stability, and shelf-life.

What is the FDA's role concerning food additives?

The FDA tests and approves food additives for safety.

What should we do regarding food allergens in schools?

Schools must manage allergens to prevent exposure among sensitive individuals.

When is the use of antibiotics allowed in organic foods?

Antibiotics may be used to treat sick animals, but those animals cannot be sold as organic.

What are the recommended practices to prevent accidental contamination in food?

Foods must be visually inspected and safely handled throughout production.

What is the term for food additives that replace fat?

Fat replacers.

How do preservatives work in food?

Preservatives restrict the growth of bacteria by withdrawing water from food.

What is fortification?

Fortification involves adding vitamins or minerals to improve nutritional content.

What is the primary reason for food allergies to be increasing?

The exact reason is unknown but may involve hygiene, better diagnosis, and food processing.

Why must dairy consumption be managed in some individuals?

Lactase production may decrease after weaning, leading to lactose intolerance.

What significant effect can gluten have in specific conditions?

Gluten can trigger symptoms in individuals with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity.

What food is most commonly associated with serious allergic reactions?

Peanut.