Oral Challenges

An oral food challenge is a test that can be performed to find out whether someone has a food allergy. This involves eating a full serving size of a food in our office, under strict supervision. Dr. Rajan typically recommends this test if she feels that you may have outgrown your food allergy and no longer need to avoid the food. Blood tests and skin tests for foods are very helpful but are not perfect tests. An oral challenge is considered the gold standard for the diagnosis of food allergy.

The process involves eating a full serving size portion of a food, in small incremental amounts over the course of a half day and then you being monitored for symptoms. We are prepared to treat any reaction that may occur such as hives, trouble breathing, cough, wheezing, throat tightness, lip/eyelid swelling or other symptoms of anaphylaxis.

What Do I need to Do to Prepare for an Oral Challenge?

On the day of the procedure, we would like for you to be healthy and without any symptoms of a sickness such as a viral head cold, stomach virus or asthma flare on the day of the challenge. Be sure to bring activities, electronic devices and books to keep yourself entertained as you will be in the office for about a half-day. Please also bring a change of clothes to the office in case you or your child vomits. Check with our office to see if the food will be provided or if you need to bring it yourself. Try to bring additional snacks to help with eating the food such as crackers or bread if your child is eating a nut butter. You may also want to bring a familiar sippy cup if your child will be drinking cow’s milk, almond milk or soy milk. An oral challenge can be a scary experience, particularly if your/your child is fearful of eating the food. Our staff is trained to support you during the procedure and will do everything they can to help you successfully pass the challenge!