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Food Insecurity and Health Inequities in Food Allergy

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Abstract

Purpose of Review

The intersection of food insecurity among those with food allergy is a growing public health concern. Both food allergy and food insecurity have profound implications on health, social, and economic outcomes. The interaction of social determinants of health, poverty, racism, housing insecurity, and access to care has direct impact on individuals with food allergy.

Recent Findings

There is increasing evidence that universal screening for food insecurity is vital in the routine care of patients with food allergy. Individuals with food allergy who are also burdened by food insecurity face unique challenges related to the need to maintain dietary modifications often with expensive specialized diets, which are difficult to access. This may lead to limited dietary options, malnutrition, increased financial burden, and social isolation. While there are available resources and support systems that can assist individuals with food allergies in managing food insecurity, there is an increasing need for advocacy and inclusivity in policy frameworks involving multiple stakeholders.

Summary

Multi-sector efforts involving healthcare providers and advocacy and government agencies are necessary to support policy changes that protect the rights and well-being of individuals affected by food allergy and food insecurity. By increasing awareness, improving access to safe, affordable, allergen-free food, and advocating for policy change, we can work toward ensuring universal access to safe, nutritious food for all individuals, regardless of their food allergy status or socioeconomic background.

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Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Pediatrics, Allergy & Immunology Division, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 13 Children’s Way, Slot 512-13, Little Rock, AR, 72202, USA

    Akilah A. Jefferson & Amy M. Scurlock

  2. Arkansas Children’s Research Institute, Little Rock, AR, USA

    Akilah A. Jefferson & Amy M. Scurlock

  3. Department of Medicine, The University of Rochester, School of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, USA

    Lauren Davidson & Jessica Stern

  4. Department of Pediatrics and Medicine, Allergy, Immunology and Rheumatology, Pediatric Allergy and ImmunologyThe University of RochesterSchool of Medicine and Dentistry, Rochester, NY, USA

    Jessica Stern

Authors
  1. Akilah A. Jefferson
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  2. Lauren Davidson
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  3. Amy M. Scurlock
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  4. Jessica Stern
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All authors wrote, reviewed and edited the manuscript text.

Corresponding author

Correspondence to Amy M. Scurlock.

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Jefferson, A.A., Davidson, L., Scurlock, A.M. et al. Food Insecurity and Health Inequities in Food Allergy. Curr Allergy Asthma Rep 24, 155–160 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11882-024-01134-0

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