a true allergic reaction to a food is produced by a mistaken immune response. these are called ige-mediated allergies because they are triggered when immunoglobulin e antibodies are produced in response to a specific food the child is sensitive to. there are also other food sensitivities and reactions that are not ige-mediated. for example some young children have a condition called enterocolitis an intestinal inflammation. in these cases they have gastrointestinal symptoms after ingesting milk or soy formula but no respiratory or skin symptoms. these are not ige-mediated allergies and kids usually outgrow this condition by age 2 or 3.
what causes food allergies?