Egg Allergy
Egg allergy is one of the most common childhood food allergies. Reactions typically occur to egg white proteins, though some individuals also react to yolk. Most children outgrow it by adolescence.
Category
Food Allergies
Severity
Moderate to SeverePrevalence
1–2% of young children; less common in adults.
Symptoms
Airways & Breathing
- Runny nose
- Sneezing
- Asthma symptoms
Skin
- Hives
- Eczema
- Facial swelling
Digestive
- Nausea
- Stomach pain
- Vomiting
Systemic / Other
- Anaphylaxis in sensitised individuals
How It's Diagnosed
- Skin prick test to egg white and egg yolk separately
- Specific IgE to ovomucoid, ovalbumin, and other egg proteins
- Baked egg challenge — many egg-allergic children tolerate well-cooked egg in baked goods
Avoidance Strategies
- Avoid egg in all forms: whole egg, egg white, dried egg, pasteurised egg
- Check labels for lecithin (E322) if egg-derived; albumin; globulin; lysozyme (E1105)
- Egg is a hidden ingredient in pasta, cakes, mayonnaise, coatings, and some vaccines
- Flu vaccine contains trace egg protein — discuss with your doctor before vaccination
Cross-Reactivity
- Bird-egg syndrome: allergy to egg yolk associated with allergy to bird feathers/dander
- Eggs from different bird species (duck, quail) may cross-react
Baked vs raw egg
Many children who react to raw or lightly cooked egg can tolerate well-baked egg (e.g., in cakes or muffins). Heating denatures the proteins, reducing their allergenic potential. A supervised 'baked egg challenge' can establish whether this applies to your child.
Tolerance of baked egg does not mean raw egg is safe. Your allergist will guide re-introduction steps.
Vaccines and egg allergy
Influenza (flu) vaccines are traditionally grown in eggs. Most egg-allergic individuals tolerate standard flu vaccines safely. Egg-free flu vaccine options exist for those with a history of anaphylaxis to egg. The MMR vaccine does not contain egg and is safe for egg-allergic children.
Always tell the healthcare provider about egg allergy before vaccination so they can advise on precautions.
Related Allergens
Medical disclaimer
This page is for educational purposes only. Allergy diagnosis and management must be carried out by a qualified allergist. Do not attempt to test yourself with suspected allergens. Always carry prescribed emergency medications and follow your written action plan.
Reviewed 2026-06-01 · Looms Medical Team