Food allergies are on the rise and according to a new study published in the December issue of Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, pesticides and tap water could be partially to blame.
The study reported that high levels of dichlorophenols, a chemical used in pesticides and to chlorinate water, when found in the human body, are associated with food allergies.
“Our research shows that high levels of dichlorophenol- containing pesticides can possibly weaken food tolerance in some people, causing food allergy,” said allergist Elina Jerschow, lead study author. “This chemical is commonly found in pesticides used by farmers and consumer insect and weed control products, as well as tap water.”
While opting for bottled water instead of tap water might seem to be a way to reduce the risk for developing an allergy, according to the study such a change may not be successful.
“Other dichlorophenol sources, such as pesticide-treated fruits and vegetables, may play a greater role in causing food allergy,” said Jerschow. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the most common food allergens are milk, eggs, peanuts, wheat, tree nuts, soy, fish, and shellfish.
“Our research shows that high levels of dichlorophenol- containing pesticides can possibly weaken food tolerance in some people, causing food allergy,” said allergist Elina Jerschow, lead study author. “This chemical is commonly found in pesticides used by farmers and consumer insect and weed control products, as well as tap water.”
While opting for bottled water instead of tap water might seem to be a way to reduce the risk for developing an allergy, according to the study such a change may not be successful.
“Other dichlorophenol sources, such as pesticide-treated fruits and vegetables, may play a greater role in causing food allergy,” said Jerschow. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the most common food allergens are milk, eggs, peanuts, wheat, tree nuts, soy, fish, and shellfish.
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