Diagnosis of food allergy

An allergy specialist can make a diagnosis and provide advice on management and emergency treatment of food allergy.

A referral to an experienced allergy dietitian may also be required, particularly for someone with multiple food allergies.

People who are diagnosed as being at higher risk of anaphylaxis may be prescribed  an adrenaline (epinephrine) injector (such as Anapen® or EpiPen®). They should also be given an ASCIA Action Plan for Anaphylaxis completed and signed by their doctor.

People who are assessed as being at low risk of anaphylaxis will be advised to avoid their allergen. They will be told how to manage an allergic reaction and given an ASCIA Action Plan for Allergic Reactions.

Being diagnosed with food allergy can cause stress. Understand that you are not alone – help and support is available.

Talk to your allergy specialist for expert individual treatment and advice. They may recommend regular review appointments so you can receive up to date information on managing food allergy and the risk of anaphylaxis.

We have trained Allergy Educators who can help you with managing day to day life with food allergy. You can call our National Allergy Helpline on 1300 728 000 or contact us online for support. You can also subscribe to Allergy & Anaphylaxis Australia at no cost for information, including food allergy alerts, support and access to webinars and more.

With awareness, education and training, those who have food allergy and their families can lead fulfilling lives.

Useful links

See the Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA) if you would like more information.

• What is causing your allergy?
• Allergy testing
• Evidence-Based Versus Non Evidence-Based Allergy Tests and Treatments