Cross sensitivities
A significant proportion of older children and adults with a food allergy have a cross sensitivity to inhaled allergens, such as pollens.15
Birch pollen contains allergens similar to those found in apples, cherries, pears, carrots, hazelnuts, peanuts, and some beans. People who experience seasonal allergic rhinitis with birch pollen may also experience milder food allergy symptoms.15 People allergic to ragweed pollen (Ambrosia spp) may be cross-sensitised to melons.3
Although peanuts are legumes, there is relatively low cross sensitivity to other legumes such as soya beans, lentils or peas. However, cross sensitivities between peanuts and non-related nuts are more likely, as well as within related nut species (cashew and pistachio are common cross sensitivities).16
Other cross sensitivities have been reported for latex with avocado, kiwi fruit, chestnut, papaya, banana, and for non-biting midges (Chironomidae) with shellfish.3