Food Allergy & Food Intolerance - What's the Difference (Full Version)

Food Allergy

An immune system response to a food that is perceived as a threat to health.

Coeliac Disease

An autoimmune disorder where the body's immune system attacks the lining of the gut in response to gluten.

Food Intolerance

A non-immune system reaction that causes symptoms due to difficulty digesting certain food components.

Lactose Intolerance

The inability to properly digest lactose due to a deficiency in the enzyme lactase.

Anaphylaxis

A severe allergic reaction that requires immediate medical attention and can be fatal.

Symptoms of Food Allergy

Can include nausea, stomach pain, hives, and severe reactions like a fall in blood pressure or difficulty breathing.

Symptoms of Coeliac Disease

Digestive upset that may be associated with long-term health issues like anaemia and osteoporosis.

Allergenic Foods in Ireland

Common allergens include egg, peanut, nuts, milk, and sesame.

Certified Gluten-Free Foods

Food products made from cereals that do not contain gluten or have been processed to remove gluten.

Prevalence of Food Allergy

Estimated to affect 1-2% of adults and 5-8% of children.

Prevalence of Coeliac Disease

Affects around 1% of the population.

Safefood.eu

A resource for information on food allergies, intolerances, and coeliac disease.