What type of food allergy is common with shellfish?

A seafood allergy is a common food allergy associated with shellfish. This category includes both crustaceans (like shrimp, crab, and lobster) and mollusks (such as clams, oysters, and squid). People with a seafood allergy can have adverse reactions when consuming or even coming into contact with shellfish. This allergy is significant because it affects a substantial portion of the population and can lead to severe reactions, including anaphylaxis in some individuals.

Peanut and tree nut allergies are distinct and do not typically relate to shellfish specifically. While some individuals may have multiple food allergies, these are categorized separately from seafood allergies. Similarly, a latex allergy is not connected to shellfish and arises from a separate allergenic protein found in natural rubber latex. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for food safety and proper allergy management.