Food Allergies: A Growing Public Health Crisis and the Path to Solutions

Tommy C. Sim

Oct 2025 DOI 10.35460/2546-1621.2025-0224     Access   

Abstract

Food allergies are an increasingly urgent global health concern, particularly among children in industrialized nations. This article explores the rise in prevalence through epidemiological trends and examines underlying causes including environmental changes, microbiome disruption and the hygiene hypothesis. It further considers the psychological, social and economic burden of food allergies, while critically assessing current management strategies centered on allergen avoidance and emergency preparedness. Emerging therapies such as oral and epicutaneous immunotherapy, biologic treatments and early allergen introduction are reviewed as promising developments. The article also highlights the role of legislation, public policy and advocacy in creating safer and more inclusive environments. Addressing this complex issue requires a coordinated, multidisciplinary response that prioritizes not just prevention and innovation, but also empathy, equity and societal inclusion.

Keywords: food allergy, epidemiology, hygiene hypothesis, immunotherapy, public policy, psychosocial impact, health equity

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