Food allergy tests from the internet are not recommended

Investigation: Allergy tests from the Internet are not recommended

More and more people are allergic to certain foods or at least think that they are suffering from a food allergy. Some people do not turn to a doctor for reassurance, but resort to over-the-counter allergy testing. Consumer advocates have now taken several such tests from the Internet closer to the microscope. Your conclusion: None of them is recommended.

Food allergies should not be underestimated

Health experts say food allergies have been on the increase for many years. It should not be underestimated, but by no means all people who feel unwell after eating certain foods actually suffer from a food allergy. To determine if an allergy is behind the condition, a doctor should be consulted. But some consumers prefer to test themselves. However, according to consumer advocates, such allergy tests are "not a good idea".

Some people who think they are suffering from a food allergy rely on allergy testing to clear their suspicions. But such products from the Internet are loud consumer advocates "not a good idea". (Image: airborne77 / fotolia.com)

Ten allergy tests taken under closer scrutiny

"Many people believe that they are affected by a food allergy. According to a survey by the Berlin Charité, more than a third of all respondents said this, "reports the Austrian test magazine" Konsument "..

To be sure, the situation should be clarified by a doctor. But some consumers trust in a faster version. They prefer to test themselves.

With a set from the internet, they check if they are suffering from a food allergy or intolerance. That's not a good idea.

For the Austrian Association for Consumer Information (VKI) has examined ten products, but can not recommend any of them.

Allergic reaction can become life-threatening in extreme cases

The big supermarket chains and discounters have long since discovered the business with lactose- or gluten-free foods. In supermarkets, these products fill entire rows of shelves.

However, many spend their money unnecessarily on the expensive specialty products. Just three percent of the population are affected by a food allergy, according to VKI.

"However, the proportion of fructose intolerance (fructose malabsorption) and lactose intolerance is significantly higher. Of the adults, 10 to 15 percent of them are affected. In contrast, only 0.1 percent suffer from true celiac disease (gluten-sensitive enteropathy), according to the magazine "Konsument"..

In an allergy, the immune system is directed against harmless protein molecules from food and then forms antibodies against it.

In the case of those affected, this leads to symptoms such as rashes, shortness of breath, nausea or diarrhea.

In extreme cases, an allergic reaction can also cause a life-threatening collapse.

No recommendation can be made for any test

For people who can not tolerate certain foods, it is therefore essential to know whether they are allergic or not. A doctor's visit could provide clarity here. But many seek refuge in self-tests offered on the Internet.

However, allergies and food intolerances can be determined with these tests?

To find out, the VKI, in cooperation with the Floridsdorfer Allergiezentrum (FAZ) in Vienna, has examined ten different products offered on the Internet. The tests were used by ten subjects each.

The result of the investigation was sobering. No recommendation can be made for any of the ten tests.

Six products even provided such hair-raising results that the VKI recommends keeping their hands off. Those who follow these test results may risk massive health problems.

The results of the investigation can be found on the website of the magazine "consumer" for a fee. (Ad)