New research priorities announced for childhood food allergy

Last year, Anaphylaxis UK collaborated with the University of Bristol and the James Lind Alliance to support a national priority-setting exercise aimed at shaping the future direction of childhood food allergy research in the UK. 

This work sought to identify the most important unanswered research questions from the perspectives of those directly affected by childhood food allergy, alongside healthcare professionals involved in their care. The aim was to ensure that future research focuses on areas of greatest relevance and potential impact. 

Following responses from over 2000 patients, carers and healthcare professionals, we’re now pleased to share the findings from this research. The survey identified the Top 10 research priorities that will shape the future of UK childhood food allergy research.  

Led by the University of Bristol’s CAESAR team through a James Lind Alliance Priority Setting Partnership, these priorities reflect what matters most to children, young people and families living with food allergy. 

Top 10 priorities for UK childhood food allergy research 

1. Prevention – What are the safest, most effective and cost-effective ways to prevent food allergy in children? 

2. Early diagnosis – What is the most effective ways to improve the early diagnosis and care of children with food allergy in primary care and the community? (e.g. GP, health visitor, dietitian support and advice beyond total food allergen avoidance.) 

3. Treatment – What are the safest, most effective and cost-effective treatments for children with known food allergy? (For example, immunotherapy, food ladders, medication.) 

4. Cause – What factors increase the risk of a child developing food allergy and influence whether food allergy gets worse or is outgrown? 

5. Eating out – How can eating out in restaurants and cafes be made safer and more inclusive for families with food allergies? (Including: training, awareness, alternatives, allergy menus and allergy rating.) 

6. Safety in care settings – What is the most effective way to ensure that nurseries and schools support children with food allergy and their families? (Incl: staff training, emergency medication access, inclusive meal planning and allergen free activities. 

7. Impact – How does living with a food allergy impact children, young people and their families? (Including: eating disorders; nutrition, growth and development; quality of life; social and emotional wellbeing and the challenges of eating out.) 

8. Emergency treatment – How can emergency treatment for anaphylaxis be improved? For example, through public awareness of, access to and use of adrenaline. 

9. Awareness – How can food allergy awareness and education be improved in healthcare professionals and parents? 

10. Treatment – Diet – What are the best ways to introduce food allergens to desensitise/build tolerance to treat children with food allergy? (Including: age, dose and frequency.) 

With 2-3% of school-aged children in England affected by food allergy, this work will help guide future research into prevention, diagnosis, treatment and wellbeing. Food allergy can have a profound impact on daily lives, including emotional wellbeing, social participation and feelings of isolation. 

The research was funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) and delivered through a multidisciplinary Steering Group. This included young people with food allergy and their parents, GPs, paediatric allergists, dietitians, dermatologists, health visitors, midwives, pharmacists and patient charities, including Anaphylaxis UK. 

Read the full Top 10 priorities here: Food Allergy in Children Priority Setting Partnership