Food allergies among American children have increased by 50 percent between 1997 and 2011. This is a dangerous trend and awareness is a critical step to protecting our kids.
That’s why I introduced a bipartisan resolution in Congress with Rep. Mike McCaul (R-Texas) to focus on education and outreach for Food Allergy Awareness.
As many as 15 million Americans, including one in every 13 children, have potentially life-threatening food allergies. Allergy triggers as common as fish, peanuts, eggs, milk, and wheat can land a child or adult in the hospital – and in some cases they can be fatal.
The research is promising, but there are no treatments available for food allergies. There are emergency fixes, but no long-term solution, highlighting the pressing need to educate ourselves and others on this growing problem.
My resolution designates May 11-17, 2014 as Food Allergy Awareness Week and would focus on a commitment to research and recognize those affected by food allergies.
It would promote greater education in schools and businesses on keeping people safe from food allergy reactions.
Steve Israel
Member of Congress
