Final answer:
The Big 8 food allergens include milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, and soybeans. These allergens can cause symptoms like hives, itching, and even anaphylaxis.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Big 8 commonly known food allergens include the following:
- Milk
- Eggs
- Fish
- Shellfish (such as crab, lobster, and shrimp)
- Tree nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, and pecans)
- Peanuts
- Wheat
- Soybeans
Food allergies occur when the immune system mistakenly identifies proteins found in food as harmful. This can result in a variety of symptoms, ranging from mild reactions like itching and hives to severe conditions such as anaphylaxis, a life-threatening reaction that requires immediate medical attention.