Food allergies are becoming increasingly common in the United States. The accurate diagnosis of food allergy requires specialized testing techniques and staff trained in the interpretation of results. Food allergies have significant impact on families and patients affected by them. Everyday activities such as menu planning and grocery shopping often have to be changed to take into account a family member ’s food allergy.

At the University of Michigan we have developed a comprehensive Food Allergy Service to provide diagnostic, therapeutic, and most importantly follow up and educational services for patients and families with food allergies. We have 3 board certified Pediatric Allergists who have a special interest in food allergies. To help us with the educational needs specific to food allergies, we have a specialized Nurse Educator to ensure that questions regarding foods, food allergies and treatment of reactions are answered.

In addition to our medical education services, we have a Registered Dietician available to meet with patients and families. Individuals with complicated food allergies may have to avoid nutritionally important foods. The Dietician can assist patients and families to help them maintain a balanced diet with all essential nutrients provided for.

Patients diagnosed with food allergies also may have social challenges with their new diagnosis. This may include difficulty adjusting to the diagnosis, problems fitting in with their peers at school or disruption of family routines which may cause increased stress for the family. To address these concerns we have skilled Social Workers whom can provide guidance and advice to cope with these new challenges.

The diagnosis of food allergy is complicated and often stressful for families. We have developed the University of Michigan Food Allergy Service to address the many facets of food allergy. We have dedicated staff, all of whom have personal and professional interests in food allergy care. Our mission is to provide the highest standard of care and most comprehensive services available for food allergy patients in the Midwest.