Allergy New Zealand

12/04/2026

What’s the difference between an allergy and an intolerance?

A food allergy is caused by an over-reaction of the immune system. Food intolerance is not caused by the immune system but rather by other problems, for example the digestive system.

Read more here: https://www.allergy.org.nz/conditions/food-allergies/allergy-vs-intolerance/

09/04/2026

Did you know…Allergies are the most common chronic health condition in the world?

In fact, up to one third of the New Zealand population will have an allergy of some form during their lifetime.

From information about anaphylaxis to reducing the risk of a food allergy in babies, the Allergy NZ website is the place to go for information, tips, and resources that are accessible for anyone affected by allergies.

Stop by sometime and take a look: www.allergy.org.nz

06/04/2026

The autumn issue of Allergy Today is out now!

In this newsletter, we share:

🍁 The latest news from Allergy NZ CEO Mark Dixon
🍁 Research findings into early life factors driving childhood food allergy
🍁 Artificial intelligence in food and drug allergies
🍁 A delicious Chicken and Chorizo Paella Bake recipe from allergy-friendly and low-FODMAP cook, Alana Scott
🍁 And, much more!

Read the full newsletter here: https://mailchi.mp/allergy/allergy-today-autumn-2026-newsletter-10967728

04/04/2026

Happy Easter everyone.

To complement our quest for Donations in our latest issue of Allergy Today, we created a campaign on the Raisely Fundraising platform for the first time.

We have called it, "Easter Allergy Families".🥰

Please help us by sharing the link below:

Support Allergy NZ This Easter : Make a donation today to support Support Allergy NZ This Easter

04/04/2026

Wishing everyone in the allergy community a very happy, safe, and relaxing Easter. Our offices will reopen at 9am, on Tuesday 7 April.

29/03/2026

As we head into autumn, many Kiwi families will start to notice a rise in indoor allergens - from dust mites to mould spores.

One of our sponsors, HRV New Zealand, has shared the following offer that might be of interest to you. This Easter, they’re making it easier for households to take control of their indoor air quality by offering 15% off all HRV Ventilation Systems, including upgrades and installation.

HRV systems are designed to reduce moisture, filter out common airborne irritants, and create a fresher, healthier home environment something that aligns with Allergy New Zealand’s values and guidance.

26/03/2026

Do you ever get an itchy, swollen mouth and lips when eating certain types of fruits, vegetables, and nuts? You may be experiencing Oral Allergy Syndrome (OAS).

OAS occurs when the immune system mistakes the protein in the food product with a pollen to which the person is allergic.

Foods that may cause an OAS reaction, include: Apples; Kiwifruit; Apricots; Carrots; Celery; Potatoes; Tomatoes and more. Speak with your GP if you are worried you are reacting to any foods.

Read more here: https://www.allergy.org.nz/conditions/non-ige-food-allergies/oral-allergy-syndrome/

25/03/2026

FOOD RECALL – Undeclared allergen - MILK AND SOY

Foodstuffs Own Brands Limited has recalled a specific batch of Gilmours brand Original Corn Chips due to the presence of undeclared allergens (milk and soy).

The batch of Gilmours Cheese Corn Chips was incorrectly packaged as Gilmours Original Corn Chips.

This recall affects Gilmours Original Corn Chips (650g) with a best-before date of 13 MAY 26. It was sold in a clear plastic bag and has not been exported.

If you have bought this product, check the best-before date on the back of the packaging. People with a milk or soy allergy or intolerance should not consume this product. If you have consumed any of this product and have any concerns about your health, seek medical advice.

For more information, contact Foodstuffs Own Brands Limited on 0800 245 114.
https://www.mpi.govt.nz/food-safety-home/food-recalls-and-complaints/recalled-food-products/gilmours-brand-original-corn-chips

Remember that alerts about food recalls can be sent direct to your inbox by email. Sign up here: https://www.mpi.govt.nz/news/subscribe-to-mpi -food-recalls

22/03/2026

Did you know FPIES is an allergic reaction to food that occurs mainly in the gastro-intestinal system?

It mostly affects infants and young children who may go into shock and need emergency treatment.

Symptoms, which include vomiting and diarrhoea, are delayed, occurring between two and four hours after the food has been ingested.

Read more here: https://www.allergy.org.nz/conditions/non-ige-food-allergies/fpies/

19/03/2026

Have you signed up to receive recall alerts directly to your email Inbox from the Ministry for Primary Industries?

This free service ensures that if an unsafe food product has had to be removed from distribution and sale, you will hear about it via an email notification. You can choose to subscribe to all food recalls or only those related to food allergens.

Sign up for the email alerts on the MPI website, here:
https://tinyurl.com/mry52t96
https://www.mpi.govt.nz/.../food-recall-information-for.../

17/03/2026

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence has approved a new oral immunotherapy treatment for adults in the UK living with severe allergies to birch tree pollen.

The medication Itulazax (betula verrucosa) involves exposing small, controlled doses of birch pollen extract to the patient over time to train the immune system.

Read more here: https://theconversation.com/hay-fever-new-immunotherapy-approved-in-england-for-people-with-severe-birch-pollen-allergies-263286

15/03/2026

Aotearoa’s food producers play an essential role in keeping us safe by preventing cross-contamination, ensuring accurate labelling, and providing important information to consumers.

New Zealand’s food safety regulations require food businesses to make sure allergens don't accidentally get into a product. Allergy New Zealand works with food and hospitality industries and regulators to help the food industry understand allergen management and improve allergen labelling.

Read more here: https://www.allergy.org.nz/education/food-industry/