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Like peanuts, soybeans are legumes, and have a protein structure similar to peanuts. However, a person who is allergic to soy won’t necessarily be allergic to peanuts, and vice versa. Soy is widely used in many food products, so if you have a soy allergy, it is especially important to read ingredient labels with care.
How to Avoid Soy*
The federal Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act requires that any packaged food product that contains soy as an ingredient must list the word “Soy” on the label. Please be sure to read all product labels carefully before purchasing and consuming any item. Remember that ingredients change from time to time, so check labels every time you shop. If you are still not sure whether or not a product contains soy, call the manufacturer. Always take extra precaution when dining in restaurants or eating foods prepared by others. If you are ever in doubt about any product or dish, don’t eat it.
The following ingredients indicate the presence of soy protein:
- Edamame
- Miso
- Natto
- Shoyu sauce
- Soy
- Soy protein (concentrate, hydrolyzed, isolate)
- Soy sauce
- Tamari
- Tempeh
- Textured vegetable protein
- Tofu
- Soy protein may be found in numerous products, such as breads, cookies, crackers, canned broth and soups, canned tuna and meat, breakfast cereals, high-protein energy bars and snacks, low-fat peanut butters, and processed meats.
- Asian cuisines are considered high-risk for people with soy allergy due to the common use of soy as an ingredient and the possibility of cross-contamination, even if a soy-free item is ordered.
- Studies show that most people with soy allergy may safely eat products containing soy oil and soy lecithin. Soy oil is exempt from U.S. labeling laws.
* Source: Food Allergy Initiative
The health information on this website is for general background purposes and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for specific conditions. Seek prompt medical attention for healthcare questions you have. Consult your physician before making changes to your medication, diet, or fitness program.
Did you know...
Comparatively little research has been done on soy allergy, but studies indicate that it generally occurs early in childhood and often is outgrown by age three.
Common Questions
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Source: Food Allergy Initiative
