How does biotechnology affect people who have food allergies?
Today's conversation will explore the connection between food allergies and biotechnological foods. The food industry is undergoing a major shift due to the technological advancements. These advancements may promise improved yields or nutritional value, but they can also cause health issues, especially for those with food allergies. The article below will explore the potential health implications of biotech food for people with allergies to foods and offer some helpful tips.
Understanding Biotech Foods is Important
It is important to understand the impact of biotech food on people who have allergies, as it affects directly their health. According to recent studies, the increase in food allergies has coincided with the introduction biotechnological foods over the last few decades. It's also important to remember that correlation doesn't imply cause and more research will be needed to establish the connection.
One hand, biotech food has the potential to decrease allergenicity through the removal of genes that are responsible for allergenic protein. A genetic modification can also increase the level of allergens, or create new ones. Understanding the consequences is crucial to making an informed choice about your diet.
Get Started with What You Need To Know
It's important to know what biotech food is before diving into this topic. Biotech foods are created from organisms that have had their genetic material (DNA), altered in ways not found naturally. When it comes to food allergy sufferers, precaution should be taken as genetic modification can introduce allergens to the food supply. However, such cases are rare due to strict safety assessment.
Example Implications
- Introduction of allergens. Genetic modification has the potential to introduce allergens in food. In 1996, for example, the Brazil nut gene from soybeans was added to them in order to boost their nutritional value. It was discovered that the gene introduced also caused reactions among individuals who are allergic to Brazil nut.
- Inadvertently increasing levels of allergens already present: A genetic modification could inadvertently cause an increase of allergens that are already there. Flavr Savr GM tomatoes, for example, showed higher levels of allergenic proteins, even after they were deemed safe to consume.
- Potentially reduced allergenicity. Biotech food could be engineered with reduced allergenicity through the removal or modification of genes that are responsible for allergenic protein. It could be beneficial to people who have food allergies, as they will now have more options.
More Tips and Suggestions
It's vital for people with allergies to be aware of the most recent research regarding biotechnological foods. If you are concerned about a particular food, read the labels and speak to a dietitian or healthcare professional. Avoiding allergenic food is the best way to avoid allergic reactions.
Conclusion
Conclusion: The implications of biotech food for those with allergies to foods are multifaceted and complex. There are risks, such as the possibility of introducing new allergens or increasing the levels of those already present. However, the likelihood of reduced allergy is also possible. In my role as a nutritionist and dietician, I urge everyone to be informed about their health and make the best dietary decisions for them. This is especially true of those who have food allergies. Your health is the most important thing you can have!
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