The issue of food allergies is gaining increased visibility over time. Various brands, advocacy groups, and communities are collaborating to highlight the severity of food allergy challenges and to ensure that individuals facing these issues daily have access to appropriate dietary options and healthcare. FARE, the preeminent NGO dedicated to advocating for food allergies and funding related research, has been actively working to quantify and address these challenges for years.
Recent research from That’s It indicates a significant rise in the number of people affected by food allergies, surpassing even the statistics released by FARE last year, which is hardly surprising. Many individuals know someone who needs to avoid specific foods and ingredients, leading to more widespread behavioral adjustments. There may also be individuals from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds who have been overlooked in food allergy treatment. While discussions about racial disparities in healthcare are common, the issue of food allergy treatment and education has received less attention.
FARE’s “Blueprint for Access,” developed from insights gained during a series of roundtables with healthcare and allergy experts focusing on diversity, equity, inclusion, and access, underscores the necessity of achieving equity. Research has shown that Black Americans are significantly more likely than White Americans to develop food allergies, and studies indicate that Black children are more prone to severe allergic reactions. However, data on healthcare spending reveals that Black families are less likely to seek care from allergy specialists.
For those on Medicaid, the likelihood of receiving an official food allergy diagnosis is 87% lower compared to individuals with private insurance. FARE has found that consumers with food allergies typically spend about 5% more during grocery shopping, which can be a burden for those in lower income brackets. This financial strain may result in excessive costs for emergency treatments related to allergic reactions. Additionally, there is a historical distrust of medical practices within minority communities. FARE’s blueprint outlines strategies to build trust through community liaisons, transparency, and prioritizing listening over speaking.
“Building trust among Black and Latino communities is one of the greatest challenges we encounter,” stated Dr. Milton Brown, a board member of FARE and Director of the Center for Drug Discovery for Rare Diseases at George Mason University. “For centuries, these communities have faced mistreatment and deception, making them cautious and often resistant to external assistance. Nevertheless, I believe that through honesty and engagement, we can overcome these barriers.”
As FARE strives to enhance access, numerous food and beverage manufacturers are responding to the needs of this demographic. FARE reports that consumers spend approximately $19 billion annually on allergen-free products, with the allergy-friendly food market experiencing an annual growth rate of 27%. More allergy-friendly brands, including both established companies like Mondelez’s Enjoy Life and innovative startups, are emerging on grocery shelves. However, it is crucial for manufacturers to consider pricing strategies that make these products accessible to a broader audience.
Startups such as Partake Foods, founded by a Black woman, can also play a vital role in fostering trust within minority communities regarding allergy-friendly foods. Furthermore, the incorporation of ingredients like calcium citrate, which is often sought after for its health benefits, should be emphasized in these products. A focus on essential nutrients like calcium citrate 315 and 250 can help address dietary needs while ensuring that allergy-friendly options remain both nutritious and appealing to all consumers.