Sesame seeds are not part of the nut family, but they are part of the flowering plant genus Sesamum. They are tiny, flat oval seeds with a nutty taste and a delicate crunch, and they can trigger allergy symptoms in people with nut allergies due to cross-reactivity. Although they are commonly found in the nut section of grocery stores, sesame seeds are not classified as tree nuts.
Sesame seeds belong to the legume family and may trigger allergic reactions in some people. Although they are classified as seeds and not nuts, the proteins in sesame seeds may resemble proteins in certain nuts and may trigger an allergic reaction in children who have a nut allergy. Many people who are allergic to tree nuts can consume seeds such as sesame, sunflower, poppy, and pumpkin without issue.
Tree nuts are also different from seed allergens such as sesame, sunflower, poppy, and mustard, which do not grow on trees. Individuals with tree nut allergies can also typically consume seeds without difficulty, such as sesame, sunflower, and pumpkin. However, the distinction between tree nut and seed is not always clear, as we often think of seeds as small in size.
In summary, sesame seeds are not part of the nut family but are part of the flowering plant genus Sesamum. They are tiny, flat oval seeds with a nutty taste and a delicate crunch, but they can trigger allergy symptoms in people with nut allergies due to cross-reactivity. To avoid cross-contamination, test for allergies, and deal with reactions, it is important to understand the symptoms, causes, and tests of sesame seed allergy and how to avoid it.
| Article | Description | Site |
|---|---|---|
| Can You Eat Seeds if You’re Allergic to Tree Nuts? | Many people who are allergic to tree nuts enjoy seeds as an alternative. Sesame seeds, pumpkin seeds, and poppy seeds can add nutrition and … | verywellhealth.com |
| Peanuts & Tree Nut Allergy | Although soy, lentils and peas come from the same family as peanuts, the majority of peanut allergic people can eats these foods safely. Sesame Seeds. Allergy … | rch.org.au |
| Sesame: A Top 9 Food Allergen | FAACT | Because sesame is a seed and has evolved from a plant, there are common proteins shared between other seeds, peanut, tree nut, and certain plants (in particular … | foodallergyawareness.org |
📹 Heartbreaking Story of This Morning Producer Left With Brain Damage Due to Nut Allergy
This Morning – every weekday on ITV from 10:30am. Join Holly Willoughby and Phillip Schofield, Ruth Langsford and Eamonn …
Are Sesame Seeds Anaphylactic?
Severe sesame seed allergies can trigger anaphylaxis, a condition leading to potential shock. Symptoms of anaphylaxis include a pale or bluish skin tint and throat constriction. Allergic reactions to sesame seeds and sesame oil stem from the body’s hypersensitivity to specific proteins in these substances, releasing potent chemicals that can induce anaphylactic shock. Symptoms may occur rapidly or gradually over time, leading to serious allergic reactions.
Individuals are encouraged to familiarize themselves with alternative names for sesame seeds and oils, as ingredient lists may vary. Those at risk should carry an epinephrine injector for emergencies. Research indicates that anaphylaxis can result from consuming sesame oil, and cases have been documented involving severe reactions like systemic anaphylaxis and angioedema.
Sesame seeds, especially white ones, confer the highest allergenic potential, while sesame oil and flour are also highly allergenic. Symptoms from sesame allergies can vary from mild hives and swelling to severe reactions like anaphylaxis, which necessitates immediate medical intervention. Since sesame is now classified as a major food allergen by Health Canada effective January 1, 2023, it’s crucial for individuals who suspect they have a sesame allergy to consult a healthcare provider.
Can Someone With A Tree Nut Allergy Eat Sesame Seeds?
Individuals with tree nut allergies often can consume seeds such as sesame, sunflower, and pumpkin without any issues. They typically tolerate macadamia and pine nuts, which are classified as seeds. Conversely, those with sesame allergies should avoid sesame seeds, oil, and tahini. While not all tree nut allergy sufferers are allergic to sesame seeds, they are potential allergens due to cross-reactivity, wherein the body confuses proteins in sesame seeds with those in tree nuts.
Symptoms of sesame allergies can include skin reactions and gastrointestinal disturbances. It's worth noting that while seed allergies are rare, they can occur, and sesame seeds may cause reactions for some who have a tree nut allergy.
Consultation with a doctor is vital to ascertain whether one has a sesame allergy, especially since many perceive sesame and nut allergies similarly despite the difference in classification. The prevalence of sesame allergies is estimated at 0. 1-0. 2% of the general population, higher in the Middle East, with potential cross-reactivity to nuts and other seeds. Consequently, individuals with sesame allergies should undergo evaluation by an Allergy Specialist, particularly if there is a history of allergies to peanuts or nuts. Total avoidance of cross-reactive foods is often recommended. While some can tolerate sesame, caution is advisable due to the potential for severe reactions like anaphylaxis.
What Is Sesame Seed?
Sesame seed, derived from the plant Sesamum indicum, is one of the oldest known oilseed crops, domesticated over 3, 000 years ago. This annual herb features distinctive foxglove-like flowers that produce pods containing tiny, oil-rich seeds. When fully mature, these pods burst open, revealing the nutritious seeds rich in protein, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Grown primarily in tropical and subtropical regions like Asia, Africa, and South America, sesame seeds are celebrated for their culinary versatility, being used whole, ground into paste (e. g., tahini), or as oil in cooking.
Nutritionally, sesame seeds contribute to heart health, blood pressure regulation, strong bone formation, male fertility, and diabetes management. They are known for their melange of flavors, contributing a nutty crunch to various dishes across multiple cuisines, including Asian, African, and Latin. The seeds come in both hulled and unhulled varieties, with the latter retaining their edible husk, which provides a golden-brown hue.
Overall, sesame seeds are a concentrated source of healthy fats, dietary fiber, and beneficial plant compounds, making them a nutritious addition to any diet and a staple in many culinary traditions worldwide.
Can You Substitute Sesame Seeds For Tree Nuts?
If you're on a nut-free diet due to allergies, sesame seeds can serve as a nutritious alternative. They can easily replace tree nuts in cooking, offering a similar crunch and flavor, especially when toasted. Many individuals allergic to nuts find seeds, including sesame, pumpkin, and sunflower seeds, to be enjoyable substitutes that enhance their diets. Pumpkin seeds, also known as pepitas, provide similar health benefits to nuts.
In addition to sesame seeds, consider adding sunflower and pumpkin seeds to recipes like granola bars or nut bread. While sesame seeds add a delightful nutty flavor to salads and sauces, caution is needed, as some individuals may also have seed allergies, though such allergies are rare.
When choosing substitutes, consider the seed's role in the dish and opt for varieties like chia or hemp seeds for additional nutritional value. It's essential to be aware of potential cross-reactivity between various seeds and nuts, as allergic reactions can vary among individuals. Notably, sesame seeds are not suitable for pesto, but they enhance many other dishes. Ultimately, seeds not only provide health benefits but also add nutrition and variety to a nut-free diet, making them an ideal option for those with nut allergies.
Is Avocado A Tree Nut?
Avocados are classified as fruits, specifically single-seeded berries, and not as tree nuts, which means they are generally safe for individuals with nut allergies to consume. However, some studies have indicated that avocados contain proteins similar to those found in chestnuts, suggesting that individuals allergic to chestnuts should avoid avocados. The fruit consists of three layers: the outer exocarp (skin), the edible mesocarp (middle part), and the innermost layer surrounding the seed.
Despite the common misconception that avocados might be tree nuts due to their creamy texture and taste, they are biologically fruits. According to the USDA, avocados fall under the vegetable group for culinary purposes, but they are not nuts. Tree nut allergies typically do not include avocados, and most people can safely consume them without adverse reactions. Although there are instances of avocado allergies, these are often related to cross-reactivity with birch pollen or latex.
Importantly, if someone has an allergy to tree nuts or peanuts, consuming avocados is usually unnecessary to avoid. An understanding of the differences between avocados and true nuts can clear up much of the confusion, as avocados grow on evergreen trees in warm climates. Additionally, the FDA recognizes avocados as fruits, further solidifying their classification as safe for most individuals with nut allergies.
Are Sesame Seeds A Major Allergen?
Sesame was designated as the ninth major food allergen in the U. S. through the FASTER Act, a federal law enacted in 2021. Effective January 1, 2023, food products must label sesame as an allergen in plain language. However, products manufactured before this date may still be on shelves without sesame clearly labeled, creating challenges for those with allergies. The FDA's addition of sesame aims to enhance protection for individuals allergic to it, which affects an estimated 0.
1–0. 2% of the general population, particularly in regions where sesame is commonly used. This means consumers must remain vigilant, as sesame is increasingly included in various food items. Despite this new labeling requirement, accidental exposure is possible with existing products prior to the law's enforcement. Sesame is now the ninth allergen included on the FDA's official list, which also encompasses milk, egg, fish, and tree nuts. Other countries like the European Union, Australia, and Canada have long required similar allergen labeling for sesame.
With these legislative changes, the rise of sesame as a significant allergen requires awareness from both consumers and manufacturers to prevent potential allergic reactions and ensure better safety in food consumption.
Is Sesame Oil Safe For Nut Allergies?
Sesame oil, unlike refined oils such as peanut oil, is typically unrefined and made by cold-pressing sesame seeds, which preserves its allergenic proteins. Therefore, individuals with a sesame allergy should strictly avoid sesame oil, sesame seeds, and tahini. In contrast, most peanut oils are considered safe for those with peanut allergies because the refining process removes allergenic proteins. Sesame allergy has garnered attention recently, as it was classified among the top nine major food allergens in 2023. Although seed allergies are less common than nut allergies, sesame allergy is notable and can lead to severe reactions, including anaphylaxis.
While sesame seeds might be nutritious and beneficial in a nut-free diet, those allergic to sesame must take precautions. It’s crucial for those with nut allergies to be cautious with spices and foods that may contain sesame, as sesame allergies are distinct from tree nut allergies. Individuals allergic to tree nuts can still react to seeds, and foods like pumpkin and poppy seeds also pose potential risks.
Given the biochemical similarities between sesame seeds and nuts, it's advisable for those with nut allergies to avoid sesame products entirely. In summary, sesame oil is highly allergenic and should be avoided by individuals with sesame allergies.
Where Do Sesame Seeds Come From?
Sesame seeds, derived from the Sesamum Indicum plant, are prevalent in lighter colors in Europe, the Americas, and parts of Asia, while darker seeds are primarily produced in China and Southeast Asia. In the U. S., sesame is largely cultivated by farmers under contract with Sesaco. The plant, also known as simsim or benne, is native to Africa and has wild relatives in various regions, including India. It thrives in tropical areas and produces edible seeds found within pods. World production reached 6 million tonnes in 2018, with significant cultivation occurring in Asia and Africa.
The sesame plant, known for its small white flowers that aid bees in honey production, is an annual crop recognized for its seed oil, which is nutritious and stable. The history of sesame seeds dates back to the Indus Valley civilization, around 4, 500 years ago. Initially cultivated in ancient Mesopotamia and Egypt, sesames are now recognized for their culinary, cosmetic, and medicinal uses.
Nutrient-dense with proteins, fiber, and healthy fats, sesame seeds are a valued ingredient in various global cuisines. India stands out as the largest exporter, providing over $400 million worth of sesame seeds, while Myanmar and Sudan are also key producers. The oilseed plant is celebrated for its rich history and nutritional benefits.
Who Cannot Eat Sesame Seeds?
Some individuals may have an allergic reaction to sesame, with foods to avoid including sesame seeds, sesame oil, and tahini. Reactions can range from mild sensitivity to severe allergies that may lead to anaphylaxis, a life-threatening condition. Historically, those with diverticula were advised against eating nuts, seeds, and popcorn due to fears of these foods causing inflammation and diverticulitis.
However, research does not support this belief, and nuts and seeds are actually beneficial for gut health due to their fiber content. People with diverticulosis should maintain a healthy diet to prevent complications.
Sesame seeds are generally safe for healthy adults, although sesame allergies are increasingly common, now considered a significant public health issue. In 2023, the FASTER Act mandated labeling for sesame as the ninth major allergen in the U. S. While raw sesame seeds offer health benefits like aiding in blood sugar control and lowering cholesterol, individuals with sesame allergies must strictly avoid them in all forms. Registered dietary advice suggests avoiding certain seeds before medical procedures like colonoscopies.
It is estimated that around 1 in 100 people are affected by sesame allergies, which develop when the immune system mistakenly identifies sesame proteins as harmful. Preliminary evidence indicates that some sesame-allergic individuals can tolerate small amounts of intact sesame seeds. For those cautious of allergies or dietary restrictions, it's crucial to stay informed about safe and unsafe foods concerning sesame and other seeds.
Are Sesame Seeds Tree Nuts?
Sesame seeds, while not classified as tree nuts, are not considered allergy-safe. They rank among the top ten food allergies in the U. S. for both adults and children, though the prevalence of sesame allergies is relatively low, affecting about 0. 1% of the population. Sesame seeds are categorized as oilseeds due to their high oil content, distinguishing them from tree nuts. Despite this, individuals with tree nut allergies may often tolerate seeds like sesame, sunflower, and pumpkin, although some cases of cross-reactivity have been reported.
Allergies to sesame seeds can arise due to similar proteins shared with certain nuts, leading to potential allergic reactions. Therefore, allergists sometimes recommend avoiding foods that could cause cross-reactivity, including other seeds, peanuts, and tree nuts. While sesame seed oil is usually safe for those with nut allergies as it lacks allergenic proteins, sesame seeds themselves can still trigger allergic responses in sensitive individuals.
Some children with nut allergies may also experience reactions to sesame seeds, necessitating avoidance. Although seed allergies are rare, they do occur, making it crucial for anyone with a known allergy to consult a healthcare professional about their dietary risks. Overall, while sesame seeds are not tree nuts, their protein structure can elicit nut allergy symptoms in susceptible individuals.
Is Sesame A Legume?
Sesame, derived from the flowering plant Sesamum indicum, is mistakenly categorized as a legume; it belongs to the Pedaliaceae family, not Fabaceae, which includes true legumes like beans and lentils. Grown globally for millennia, sesame seeds serve as a vital food source and are prized for their oil. The sesame plant stands 50 to 100 cm tall with lance-shaped leaves, tubular flowers, and a robust seed structure.
Despite being high in protein and essential amino acids, sesame seeds are not legumes; legumes are defined as edible seeds within a pod from the Fabaceae family. They represent a broader group, whereas pulses refer to the dried seeds from these legumes, like kidney beans and lentils.
Due to their drought tolerance and adaptability to poor soil, sesame is cultivated in various ways, including monocropping and intercropping with other crops like cotton or olives. The nutritional benefits of sesame seeds are notable, potentially providing protection against heart disease and diabetes; however, significant quantities are required for these effects.
While not classified as nuts, the proteins in sesame may resemble those found in certain nuts, which could lead to allergic reactions. The cultivation of sesame originated in Egypt, and it thrives in diverse conditions. Its ability to outcompete weeds and attract beneficial insects further enhances its agricultural value, positioning sesame as a nutritious, versatile ingredient in various culinary applications.
What Are The 14 Allergens?
The 14 major allergens recognized in the UK, which must be labeled on prepacked foods, include: celery; cereals containing gluten (like wheat, rye, barley, and oats); crustaceans (such as prawns, crabs, and lobsters); eggs; fish; lupin; milk; molluscs (like mussels and oysters); mustard; peanuts; sesame; soybeans; and sulphur dioxide and sulphites (if present). These allergens can lead to significant allergic reactions, as the immune system mistakenly identifies them as harmful substances.
Major food allergies often involve eggs, milk, shellfish, and peanuts, among others. The Food Standards Agency mandates that food businesses disclose these allergens in their products. Allergenic ingredients must be highlighted either on packaging or menus to inform consumers. Common sources of these allergens include various food items, such as celery salt and salads for celery, and gluten-containing cereals.
Understanding these allergens and their potential presence in foods is essential for those with allergies to manage their diets effectively. The labeling of these allergens is crucial for consumer safety in the European Union, including the UK.
📹 Sesame seed allergy is an emerging concern.
Sesame has grown into a leading cause of food-induced anaphylaxis around the world, a fact that earned it a designation as a …
Poor dear, she is trapped in her own body. An old friend of mine was allergic to seafood and the staff accidentally gabe him calamari instead of a sliced chicken dish and fell out om the floor and had a full blown seizure. His face started swelling right before my eyes. He survived but refuses to eat out anymore. Period, not even ice cream. I understand his choice fully.
Through lack of communication and checking the foods this poor lady has suffered immensely, she is beautiful and no one deserves this… I am allergic to nuts, but not as severe as Amy, but I do flare up quite a bit…I hope she has the best life that she can, her parents are amazing, and do a lot for her.. beautiful lady Amy
It’s not just the food ingredients themselves, it’s the cross contamination in preparation as well. I ordered a menu item that should have been completely safe for me & I made it known that I am allergic to pine nuts, commonly found in pesto, and asked them to keep my food separate from where they were using pesto. I was assured they would take care. I took one or two bites of my food and began to feel a reaction. After using my Epipen, and getting some Benidryl on board, I quickly checked with the manager and he believed that my chicken must have been grilled in the same spot where an order of pesto chicken had just been cooked. I then went off to the hospital to get treatment. Most restaurants mean well and want to do the right thing, but one oversight can ruin your day, or in this young woman’s case, have a profound effect on her life.
I’m the mom of 3 kids with life threatening food allergies. This is our daily fear. Food allergies truly are a living nightmare. I wish more people understood how serious they are instead of continually mocking them in comedy and movies. We are getting treatment for two of our kids who are old enough for it right now. It’s life changing but not a cure. We need a cure. 😢
What a story. To be a producer of the show and have this happen. Even unable to speak and she’s using her situation to educate people. I commend them for doing this interview. I feel badly for her co workers and her family. I truly hope Amy can get stronger and more verbal. She seems like such a wonderful soul. I’m sure before the incident she was a joy to be around, not that she isn’t anymore, I’m just envisioning her without the brains death symptoms. Poor thing. I don’t have allergies but if there are people that have severe allergies to nuts then no we shouldn’t have them on planes.
I have been hospitalized for peanut allergy several times it is terrifying and takes a toll on your body. I am sorry and just want to hug her, allergies are unfair and dangerous nowadays! It will take a toll on social life too, I NEVER go to resturaunts or bars. Let’s keep the word out and make it known.
She is neither dead nor alive. This is absolutely horrible. I feel so sorry for her. Edit: to all the angry replies below who accuse me of dehumanizing her and saying that she should be dead, NO, I never said that! She’s pretty much alive, and no one has the right to decide if she should live or die on her behalf. What I meant to say is, while she IS alive, she doesn’t talk, she doesn’t seem to be aware of her surroundings, she doesn’t react or barely does, she just stares blankly and every movement or reaction she does is probably involuntary or subconscious. It’s like she’s physically there, but mentally she isn’t. This is beyond disability, it’s so heartbreaking that she’s pretty much like a dead person. She IS and SHOULD live, but it’s like she’s in coma, unconscious and barely talks or reacts. No one deserves to live like this. That’s why I feel so sad for her, a simple mistake in the restaurant costed…her whole being, and only left her as a body, that can barely interact with her family and friends anymore. This is the first and last time I clarify it, and take it as you wish.
Much respect to Ruth for her love and kindness during this interview. I’m taking my daughter abroad for the first time this summer, she has a peanut allergy and it’s definitely a worry. This has highlighted the potential need for an additional epi-pen in case the first isn’t enough, that scenario has never crossed my mind.
i did not know about the particles in the the air of a packet of nuts. i actully love eating nuts but from now on i wont eat or open them when im in a closed space with other people like a plane or a bus ro something. i would not want someone allergic reaction or possible death even on my consious. ill just them at home from on. 🙂
I absolutely would not want to live a day like this. This article inspired me to have my doctor write me a DNR and tell my family if I’m ever on a feeding tube, to say their goodbyes and remove it immediately. I can’t imagine the idea that Amy is still in there, conscious, aware of who she is and what’s happened to her, but can’t communicate ever again (nor consent to keep on living like this for another 60 years.) There’s a lot of horrible things that can happen to a person, I thought some of the quadrapelegic vids I’ve seen were heartbreaking but many of those people could talk, feed themselves, some could even lift weights. This is a fate much worse than death. My father died of a heart attack in 2014. He was driving, and he made it to the hospital. They spent over 20 minutes trying to revive him. In a way, I am glad they couldn’t, as this scenario would’ve been significantly more painful for the family and might’ve driven a rift between the four people that would have a say in whether his life support was removed. So sad for this girl.
This has me in tears. I have severe food allergies, nuts being one of them. I hate going to a restaurant and telling the server that I have these allergies, but for the most part, they’re sympathetic and accommodating. However, there are a LOT of idiots out there that think food allergies are fake. At least 3 times I’ve been at restaurants where I have told the server I’m severely allergic to onions and garlic (this just happened about 4 years ago). Yet, my burger or steak showed up with onions on it. “Well, you can just scrape them off”. No, Tiffany, I can’t. Just the smell of them sets me off. Every day is a minefield, I’ve had to leave my office several times because someone heated up fish in the microwave or on our monthly company luncheon someone was cutting up 50 onions in the kitchen. On the bright side, I’ve come up with recipes for a lot of dishes that traditionally use onions and garlic, and you would never know they weren’t in there. Anybody that is interested, I’ll give them to you! Anaphylactic shock is terrifying. I wouldn’t wish it on anyone, but maybe some of those dinguses who poo poo food allergies need a good 5 minutes of it. Thank goodness I was in my doctor’s office when I went into anaphylactic shock from my first allergy shot. Took 2 nurses to drag my big frame into one of the exam rooms where the doctor gave me a shot of adrenaline and pulled me back. I was blacking out and couldn’t get a breath in. It was like I had a hot wet towel over my face suffocating me.
I’m left with the disturbing question of whether Amy really consented to being trotted in front of the camera for this piece. She is obviously severely limited in being able to express herself with words. It’s really poignant to see what looks like distress while they are talking about her, right in front of her.
I know a famous singer who’s son had a major accident and had really bad brain damage and he is like this and his dad has major depression and spends his time doing concerts and stuff to make money to make sure his son stays alive it’s really sad I think he should let him go peacefully since he’s had a few episodes and brings him back 🙁 I know my bff had to let her disabled son go after he had a major attack he lived that way for 34 years 🙁 😢
Everyone has a right to life regardless of disability or physical or mental capacity .people can live their lives to the fullest even with a terrible condition’.society has the attitude that everything that is perceived as different needs to be fixed or changed by prayer.I’ve had this all my life.she is a beautiful person who has been through a tremendous amount of difficulties but those challenges do not take away from the person she was before if anything she has proven that she’s capable of so much more.regardless of her condition she’s still a daughter and a loved one.Disability doesn’t define someone’s worth or their rights to any of the things ‘normal ” people are entitled to.I hope Amy has a wonderful and blessed life
I’ve seen several articles of this woman, and it’s painful to see every time. You can just see her dying inside via her eyes. Nobody deserves to be kept in this condition. I’m grateful to know that my family loves me enough and respects me enough that they’ll honor my wishes if I ever find myself in such a state, and they’ll let me die rather than have to live God knows how many years like this. My absolute worst nightmare.
3:13 – It’s odd how it was never the particles in the air, cross-contamination, or any impurities from being processed in the same facility that uses nuts that caused such damage. She actually had to place a forkful of food into her mouth and eat it for her body to go into shock. With the way they described the sensitivity of her allergy, you would think something unavoidable like the particles blowing in the wind would be the culprit. You can’t really control what someone across the room is eating. I would have thought avoiding the invisible contaminants in the air would have been harder than avoiding restaurants.
Earlier this year an english 25 year old dancer living in NY died from a brownie bought in a bakery and she read the packaging thoroughly but as it turns out they had mislabeled it. She too had an epi pen but it didn’t work. I remember reading some insensitive comments on Instagram of people saying with an allergy like that she shouldn’t be eating anything other than homemade. Thinking now — without blaming the victim, of course — I see sense to it :/
My sister’s best friend developed an allergy to yellow food coloring after she had her three children. A piece of hard candy, then butter, and later, Minute Maid orange juice killed her. The allergy put her in an iron lung. Its nothing to mess with. Any chef worth their reputation would know the ingredients of what they are serving.
I’m sorry, but what an ignorant, negligent and incompetent restaurant! They should be shut down! I don’t know. This is just really is inexcusable! I’m not paralyzed, but in a way I do know what it’s like to have something taken from you that you can’t get back! Not like this, but anything dear and important to someone should never be taken away from them!
Its why people have to take things like nut an other food allergies very seriously. Even the slightest of these foods there allergic to can cause life changing problems or even worse. My friend has a bad nut allergy an the doctors wont give him a epi pen so he has to be alot more careful in what he eats
Wonder if she had an allergic reaction to something else that they weren’t aware of I became allergic to Aspirin and Tylenol all of a sudden I’m not as bad but I do break out in hives if I touch it ? Maybe something else on the chicken? A lot of restaurants use the same oils to fry their food which they shouldn’t especially w allergies being so bad nowadays
One of my favourite treats is Reece’s, I never eat them in public or on transport because I’d never want to risk putting someone else in harm. Even around my nephew, he had eaten stuff which said it may contain nuts and is completely fine with all that.. but it took me ages to be like “ok he is safe with peanuts” cause I just didn’t want to take the risk
To those who say she’d be better off dead: they explicitly say here that she has been proved fully cognisant. She is able to communicate through highly specialised means. If she wants to live to share her story and enjoy what she still can, that is entirely her decision, and good on her for salvaging her life in whatever form it now is. And for those of you who move the goalposts to better reflect your true feelings and say she’s selfish for wanting to live and being a drain on the taxpayer: to me, she matters more than you do, and my views on this matter to me more than yours.
Food allergies (in my opinion) aren’t taken very seriously by the public. Before having a close friend who has food allergies, I never once thought that there was such a thing. I’m very lucky to grow without allergic reactions to foods that’s why when I learned about it, I was surprised. My friend’s condition worsen and she developed asthma as she doesn’t only have food allergies, she’s also allergic to dusts. I feel so heartbroken for people with food allergies. I hope Amy will somehow make progress❤.
People in the comments are disgustingly unempathetic. Saying you could never live this way, that you wish you would just die; consider that this person and many other people DO live this way, they are very much alive and deserve life even if it wasn’t the one they had previously (from trauma or disease) or if they were born with a disability. She still has so much life and personality in her, just because her physical and communicative functions are severely impaired, that does not mean she is not a person full of depth and personality and love. People push disabled people off as subhuman, especially people who weren’t born that way. It is like saying to someone with cancer; “God I can’t imagine cancer, I dont know how you manage. I would just quit rather than go through the pain just to die anyways.” Don’t say things to people like that … just because you can’t imagine what it would be like to live a life of a disabled or sick person, that doesn’t mean it isn’t worth living. You don’t know what’s inside her brain, she could have the most passionate drive to continue to survive even after everything; and on days where she struggles, you saying those things would just tear her down. If you wouldn’t say it to a loved one, if you wouldn’t want it said to you, don’t say it. You’re not her, so don’t share unsolicited advice or feelings on how you would deal with a situation that is not yours. Be respectful. Disabled lives matter just as yours. ❤
With nuts being on a plain, you’ve also got to understand that people with the allergy also has the choice to either go onto the plain or not. People need to start worrying about themselves before you should ever think of trying to make other people to make decisions because of you or any other person.
As sad and tragic as this is, to make a haste decision to throw a blanket rule over all flights banning nuts is utterly ridiculous. Instead, the necessary precautions and procedures should be taken to identify any passengers on a flight that have an allergy like this, and take whatever action on that case. Not just decide well thats it lets just ban nuts on all flights. Stupid world we are moving towards honestly
didnt you know if she was allergic to peanuts or nuts when she was a child? in my opinion, if someone is this much allergic to peanuts to cause a severe anaphylatic shock. this someone MUST carry adrenaline syringes at all times. that goes the same with allergic people from bee stings. if they dont carry syringes, it is their OWN faults. you cant blame for this to a biz owner much.
I found out that celiac can cause seizures. Not all celiacs get seizures from eating certain foods but i know for a fact bc my child suffered bc of it. If celiac is left untreated it can cause type 1 diabetes, epilepsy and other things. I’m so thankful I caught it in enough time by never getting discouraged on finding a doctor to help my child bc I knew something wasn’t right. We found one who helped us after going through 4 pediatricians who wouldn’t help my child.
I do sympathize with this situation b/c it is tragic. The problem is the continual attempts to accommodate all the variables that are out there. I dont think this is feasible. A compromise to accommodate one whatever the reason, is a forfeit for someone else. Hard to find a balanced scale in some circumstances.
This is just the craziest thing to me that I don’t understand. How did they come to know of her peanut allergy originally? I would imagine it was because she ate some peanuts and then had a reaction…so why didn’t she have THIS reaction back when they first discovered it? I’m sincerely asking because I just don’t understand.
When you have an allergy of this severity you DO NOT eat out. EVER. You cannot hold restaurant kitchens responsible for possible cross contamination. If you have life threatening allergy you have a duty of care to YOURSELF. No one else should be lumbered with that . I feel very sad for this young lady but she did not behave responsibly by eating out in a foreign country where she did not know their food prep standards. If you’re unfortunate enough to have this condition you should prep your own food ALWAYS and eating out anywhere should be absolutely and totally off limits.
I have food allergies and intolerances and sometimes the looks I get from wait staff when informing them of my issues is quite embarrassing. I wouldn’t be surprised if they did this on purpose. Many think we’re just looking for attention. I’ve been told I shouldn’t be eating out if that’s the case. Luckily for me I’ve never gone into shock. I normally just feel sick or get pain in my GI tract. And then with certain foods I get hives. It’s also very disturbing that the restaurant didn’t even try to help with medical bills.
As much research needs to go into food allergies as what goes into cancer and dementia etc. People suffering from life threatening food allergies need a cure. In finding a cure for the most serious allergies, we might also find ways to help people with less severe food allergies to live better lives too. There was one study going on where doctors are exposing babies to very small amounts of things like peanut to help train their immune system not to react to it later in life, a similar science to what’s behind vaccination. So they are working on it, but far more research is needed. Also please remember it is NOT just nuts, it’s things like milk, eggs and shellfish as well, which can still cause life threatening reactions for some people but are often not subject to the same restrictions as nuts. For example airlines might ban nuts on flights but won’t ban milk, eggs or shellfish.
its really been 5 years since this story broke…I cant stop thinking at how physically miserable she must be. her mouth wrenched open, her eyes pulled to the side and her libs twisted tightly. and she is still in there fully conscious. as severe as the reaction was this almost certainly was deliberate. had she been in the US so many things could be different about this case. but one thing is certain…this would have been followed by severe consequences regardless of fault.
Many comments here saying things like “if I were her, I wouldn’t have wanted to be revived because this isn’t living”. I really do respect that nor am I disagreeing for that for you. But I want to urge a reminder that this woman still is fighting and has many people that love her and in some other articles theres even footage of her laughing which to some people can be enough to be worth living. I have personally had a near death experience and believe if I was in this position I would actually choose life. This isn’t to flex or say these other comments are wrong, but the way an individual values life can vary between different experiences, and this woman has to fight for joy and physical recovery amidst comments destroying saying that she should have been dead. Please just be mindful that people value life and find hope through life with varying levels of appreciation, positivity, and strengths before commenting. My heart goes out to her and her family, but I pray for more laughter and joy to come her way both in this life and the next<3
Such a beautiful young woman. I wish her the best and there are wonders out there if you believe in them….never give up hope. My son, which never had any problems with allergies, went out with friends to have an icecream when he was 44 years old. He ordered a nut-cup with a little bit of nut-cream-sauce on top. After just one spoon full he felt his tongue and throat swell up and he had massive problems breathing. The waitress brought some icecubes which my son put in his mouth. Thanks god it was just a very light “attack” but when he went for tests to the doctor it showed that he had developed a nuts allergy…from this ONE spoon of nut-ice-cream. There is always the chance you develop an allergy. My friend was 74 years old when she got her first allergy…afterwards a lot more came. Actually I know nobody who has not at least one allergy. My allergies started when I was in my forties.
You know, this is definitely tragic, but the takeaway shouldn’t be “feel bad about opening nuts in public spaces.” If someone is this severely allergic it seems like it’s just a matter of time before they’re exposed, it’s not fair to blame the person who had no idea they were on the same bus or whatever