Was just debating this with a friend!

Artificial preservatives: Chemicals like sodium benzoate, nitrates, and sulfites are used to extend the shelf life of products, but some of these additives have been linked to allergic reactions or intolerances.
Food colorings and dyes: Certain artificial colors, such as tartrazine (Yellow #5), have been implicated in allergic-like reactions and hypersensitivity, particularly in children.
Hydrogenated oils and trans fats: These are used in many processed foods to improve texture and shelf stability. Though not directly linked to food allergies, they have been associated with inflammation and other health issues that may exacerbate allergic conditions.
Emulsifiers and thickeners: Ingredients like carrageenan, lecithin, and guar gum are commonly added to processed foods to improve texture or consistency. Some of these additives may irritate the gut or contribute to inflammatory responses, which could influence food sensitivities or allergies.
Processed foods also often contain traces of allergens due to cross-contamination during manufacturing. For example, a cereal labeled as "nut-free" might still contain trace amounts of peanuts due to shared processing equipment, making it difficult for individuals with severe allergies to avoid accidental exposure.
The Hygiene Hypothesis
Another theory that has been proposed to explain the rise in food allergies is the hygiene hypothesis. This theory suggests that as modern societies have become more hygienic and urbanized, our immune systems are not exposed to the same variety of bacteria, viruses, and parasites that our ancestors encountered. As a result, the immune system may become "hyperactive," leading to allergic responses to otherwise harmless substances like food proteins.
Increased use of antibiotics, sanitized environments, and reduced exposure to natural microbes could all contribute to this phenomenon. Some researchers believe that changes in the gut microbiome—a community of bacteria that plays a critical role in immune regulation—may be a key factor in the development of food allergies. Certain food processing methods, such as the use of antibiotics in animal farming or the inclusion of artificial ingredients in processed foods, could potentially alter the balance of bacteria in the gut, making individuals more susceptible to allergies.
The Role of Pesticides and Chemicals in Food Allergies
Chemical residues from pesticides and herbicides, particularly in conventionally grown produce, have also been suggested as possible contributors to food allergies. Glyphosate, the active ingredient in many herbicides, has been under scrutiny for its potential health impacts. Some studies have suggested that glyphosate may affect gut bacteria, which in turn could influence the development of allergies.
Increased use of pesticides and herbicides has led to more frequent exposure to these chemicals through our food and water supply. While regulatory bodies set limits on pesticide residues in food, there is growing concern that cumulative exposure to these chemicals could play a role in the rising incidence of food-related sensitivities and allergies.
Conclusion: Food or the Way It's Altered?
So, are we becoming allergic to food itself, or to what has been done to it? The answer is complex and likely involves a combination of factors. While some people may be inherently allergic to specific food proteins, the industrialization of food production—through the introduction of GMOs, pesticides, artificial additives, and extensive processing—may be exacerbating the problem.
The increase in food allergies could be partially attributed to changes in the way food is grown, processed, and consumed. However, it is important to note that there is no definitive scientific consensus linking GMOs or food processing methods directly to food allergies. More research is needed to fully understand the relationship between modern food production techniques and the rise in food allergies.

For now, it is essential for consumers to stay informed about the ingredients in their food and to make choices that align with their health needs and concerns. Understanding what’s in our food—and how it is produced—can help us navigate the increasingly complex landscape of modern food and its potential impacts on our health.