North Texas e-News reports on food allergies:

"Approximately 6 percent of children are affected by food allergies," says Dr. Carol Rice, Texas Cooperative Extension health specialist. "The eight most common food allergies are milk, egg, peanut, tree nut – including walnuts and cashews – fish, shellfish – including shrimp and crab – soy and wheat."

"The most severe allergic reaction is known as anaphylaxis or anaphylactic shock," Rice says. "Anaphylaxis can be fatal, either through swelling that shuts off the airway or through a dramatic drop in blood pressure."

For parents of food allergic children, Rice suggets: always read food labels to make sure of ingredients; let friends and relatives know about the child's allergy and dietary limitations; get a medical alert bracelet or necklace for the child to wear all the time; make sure the child carries emergency medication if necessary; and get the child's school involved.

See our food allergy products for more ideas about how to avoid anaphylaxis.