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Essay / Food Allergies - 1785
Bright red flashing lights circle the emergency aisle as sirens screech to a halt. The codes “EMERGENCY, EMERGENCY” are repeated over the intercom system in the hospital’s endless, pale-colored corridors. Doctors and nurses rush around in hopes of stopping an allergic reaction. For people with food allergies, eating out is not a simple task. In our fast-paced society, many restaurants often do not consider or understand the severity when customers ask for substitutions or inquire about ingredients. Over the past two decades, hospital admissions have increased due to anaphylactic shock caused by eating foods they are allergic to in restaurants (Han 10). Anaphylactic shock is a type of reaction when the body does not agree with a certain substance. These reactions can often range from mild to extreme and life-threatening. This type of impact has raised awareness of food allergies among the general public and businesses. Over time, many people have developed sensitivities to various types of foods. Today, approximately 15 million Americans suffer from food allergies (Keefer). This sharp increase has caused many restaurants to make significant changes to their cuisine and menus. Only recently have restaurants started to warm up to the topic of food allergies. Food allergies have grown and evolved throughout America, generating substantial changes in food industries. In today's world, the number of people suffering from food allergies is increasing. Food allergies are becoming more and more apparent in society. Food allergies were not common until the recent outbreak; according to the National Restaurant Association in 20...... middle of paper ...... reactions can be fatal, it is important that all employees know exactly what they are talking about when communicating information to customers. Overall, as the number of people suffering from food allergies and allergens continues to rise, it is imperative that the government takes a stand to create a safer world for those living with food allergies. Many changes have been implemented due to the extreme rise in food consumption levels. allergies in today's society. As this number grows, more and more research, studies, and information are being discovered about the possible causes and foods that many people react to. For this reason, it is important that the restaurant settings; including customers, chefs, managers, servers and other employees are aware of the dangers that food allergies can present. A simple oversight or mistake can have a much greater effect.