Some airlines have decided to discontinue serving peanuts on board due to concerns about allergies. People with peanut allergies are at risk of severe reactions if exposed to peanuts, and there is no strong evidence to suggest that allergens circulate in the air on airplanes. While peanuts belong to the legume family, these findings are believed to apply to other nuts and commonly allergenic foods.
Individuals with food allergies may experience symptoms like rash, nausea, and difficulty breathing when exposed to allergens through ingestion, skin contact, or inhalation. In severe cases, it can lead to a life-threatening reaction known as anaphylaxis, which may result in throat swelling, dizziness, and extreme breathing difficulties.
Several airlines have prohibited the sale of nuts during flights and flight attendants have advised passengers with allergies not to consume nuts. Researchers at Imperial College London, including Paul Turner, examined five studies to investigate the risks of inhalation.
One study focused on whether peanut particles were present in air samples taken from commercial planes serving snacks. Most samples showed no presence of peanut particles, as the planes are equipped with filters that eliminate these particles before they enter the cabin, as stated by Turner. The only exception was samples taken around tray tables where peanuts were being consumed, but these allergens were at very low levels and unlikely to cause an allergic reaction.
Further studies looked at allergen levels in the air when individuals consumed or shelled peanuts at home or in a lab. Similar low levels of allergens were found within close proximity to individuals handling peanuts, only causing mild reactions like watery eyes. However, high levels of allergens were detected in the seats, trays, and floors of the aircraft where the initial study took place.
Turner’s team is collaborating with British airlines to enhance safety measures for passengers with allergies. The findings are likely applicable to other allergens such as nuts, seafood, and eggs. Matthew Greenhort from the University of Colorado emphasized that peanuts are unlikely to aerosolize and pose an airborne risk to passengers.
Article revised on October 17, 2024. Peanuts have been identified as a legume.
Source: www.newscientist.com
