Over the past two decades, the number of people with allergies has tripled in the U.S., and studies predict that at least a third of the country’s population will develop symptoms at least once in their lives.

Food labels are required to list food allergens in order to protect their customers. The Food and Drug Administration has listed the top 8 food allergens in the U.S., and they are required to be listed on all food labels in a simple manner. These allergens include:

• Milk
• Eggs
• Peanuts
• Tree Nuts
• Fish
• Shellfish
• Soy
• Wheat

Though recent studies have shown that allergy tests may not be one hundred percent accurate, they are offered in many clinics and can help identify a severe allergy. Some allergic reactions can be incredibly dangerous, so it is important to be careful if there is a risk present.