Food allergies refer to an immune system reaction in which a person's body mistakenly identifies certain foods as harmful substances, triggering an inflammatory response. When someone with a food allergy consumes that particular food, their immune system produces antibodies called Immunoglobulin E (IgE) to fight off the perceived threat. This can cause symptoms such as itchiness or swelling of the mouth, difficulty breathing, hives, and in severe cases, anaphylaxis which is a life-threatening reaction that requires immediate medical attention. Common food allergens include peanuts, tree nuts, dairy products, eggs, fish, shellfish, soybeans, wheat, and certain fruits like strawberries or kiwi.