We’ve seen the recalls of foods due to undeclared nuts for people with allergies, but how do you find out if your child is allergic?  British researchers have discovered a way to test that involves only a skin prick and a blood test, and does not risk exposing the child to the food allergen.  Yahoo!  brings us this story from HealthDay, which outlines the findings, and includes comments from U.S. based medical experts as well.

If you suspect that your child has food allergies, then read this article for some encouraging news about the testing process.  Previously, exposure to the actual food was considered the most reliable test indicator, but it may not be necessary to put children at that level of risk to conduct the test.  It is still best to consult with your physician and decide together what tests are needed for your situation, the article concludes.  Food allergies are more widespread that you might think - the researchers noted that 8 percent of infants have some form of common food allergy, usually involving peanuts.