A food allergy occurs when the body's immune system mistakenly identifies a specific food as harmful. This can lead to various symptoms, ranging from mild reactions like hives and stomach upset to severe reactions known as anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening. Common allergens include peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, wheat, soy, fish, and shellfish. People with food allergies must avoid the triggering foods and read labels carefully to prevent accidental exposure. Diagnosis typically involves a medical history review, skin tests, or blood tests. Management often includes carrying an epinephrine auto-injector for emergencies.