Recognition of nuts and seeds in children with/without food allergies and their mothers: A reflection of culinary culture

Abstract

Background Nuts and seeds are among the leading causes of food allergy. Effective food allergy management hinges on the ability to identify and avoid relevant foods. Aim To evaluate the nut/seed recognition ability in both children and mothers. Methods Primary caregivers (mothers) and their children (6–18 years old) with/without food allergies were shown photographs of nuts/seeds, and their products with visible/hidden allergens to assess their ability to recognize accurately. Results A total of 196 children and 184 mothers participated. The median ages of the children and mothers were 7.6 (6.8–10) and 37.8 (33.1–41.5) years, respectively. Over 75% of the children/adolescents and over 90% of the mothers accurately identified the kernel forms of nuts/seeds, except pine nuts. Walnuts, hazelnuts, almonds, and cashews were the most accurately recognized kernel forms by both populations. Generally, the kernel forms were recognized 5–20% more accurately than their in-shell forms, followed by products with visible and hidden forms, respectively. Some Turkish culinary-specific products with visible/hidden allergens were recognized as frequently as the kernel/in-shell forms by both study groups. Although there was a similar recognition pattern between study groups and subgroups (nut/seed allergy, other food allergy, controls), higher rates of recognition were found in mothers than in their children and adolescents than in schoolchildren. Conclusion In Eastern Mediterranean region, nuts and sesame seeds are highly recognized by both mothers and their children. Accurate identification of these foods is likely a culinary feature, but not the result of increased awareness. More information is needed on whether this ability reduces the risk of exposure.