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Adults Face Mysterious New Food Allergies
24 Nov, 2025
Summary
- Nearly half of adults develop new food allergies later in life.
- Gut microbiome imbalance is a suspected cause of adult allergies.
- Shellfish and tree nuts are common adult allergens.
A significant and unexplained rise in food allergies among adults is prompting concern among health experts and researchers. Recent data indicates that nearly half of adults develop new allergies later in life, a trend that has escalated dramatically. The Food and Allergy Fund recently convened a forum to discuss these developments, with health officials exploring potential causes.
Scientists are increasingly focusing on the role of gut health and the microbiome in these adult-onset allergies. The delicate balance of bacteria in the intestine can be disrupted by modern diets, antibiotics, and other environmental factors, potentially leading to inflammation and allergic reactions. This imbalance is a leading theory behind the epidemic.
Common allergens for adults include shellfish and tree nuts, with shellfish being the top trigger. The rapid increase in food allergies, far too quick to be explained by genetics alone, suggests a complex interplay of environmental factors. Researchers are working to pinpoint the specific triggers in this 'perfect storm.'
