Peanuts Kill

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Peanuts and tree nuts are among the most common allergens that can become life-threatening conditions. Although many food allergies are minor, some are severe and can end with a person going into anaphylactic shock where they have difficulty breathing and vomiting from proximal contact with, rather than consumption, of the allergen. In dire situations as this, an Epi-pen, or dose of epinephrine, may be needed so the person can limit the risks and have enough time to be escorted to the hospital.

A study done in 2011 found that only 20% of children outgrew their peanut allergy and that 2% of all children have it. Due to the possible severity of the allergy, some institutions like schools and workplaces do not allow peanuts or have a separate allergen-free eating area. Airplanes, once known for distributing peanuts to their customers as part of the flight, have now switched to pretzels or other snack options to eliminate customers exposure in a small area.