Which of the following statements is true regarding food allergies?

The statement regarding food allergies that is accurate is that they require antibody formation. Food allergies are immune responses that occur when the immune system mistakenly identifies a specific protein in food as harmful. This leads to the production of antibodies, specifically Immunoglobulin E (IgE), which play a critical role in the allergic reaction process. When a person with a food allergy consumes the offending food, their body reacts due to the pre-formed antibodies, causing various symptoms, which can range from mild to severe.

In contrast, intestinal symptoms do not always accompany food allergies. While some individuals may experience gastrointestinal distress, food allergies can manifest in various other ways, including respiratory issues or skin reactions. Moreover, food allergies are not managed like food intolerances; management of food allergies typically involves strict avoidance of the allergenic food and, in some cases, the use of emergency medications like epinephrine. Lastly, food allergies can occur at any age, not exclusively in children, and many people can develop food allergies as adults.