Food allergens are naturally occurring proteins in food that people are sensitive to.

• A. True.
• B. False.
• C. They are minerals.
• D. They are vitamins.

Answer: (A)

Food allergens are substances in foods that can trigger an immune response in people who are sensitive to them. In most foods that cause reactions, the culprit is a naturally occurring protein. The immune system can recognize these proteins as foreign and react, sometimes severely. Minerals and vitamins are different kinds of nutrients and are not protein-based allergens, so they aren’t what this statement is describing. This is why the statement is correct: allergens in foods are typically naturally occurring proteins that some individuals react to. This understanding underpins why allergen labeling and careful handling are essential to prevent accidental exposure.