What are the top eight food allergens?

The correct answer identifies the top eight food allergens recognized by regulatory authorities, which include milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, and soy. These allergens are significant because they account for a vast majority of allergic reactions in individuals and have a well-documented history of causing serious health threats to those who are sensitized to them.

Properly recognizing and managing these allergens is crucial in food safety and preparation, especially in environments serving diverse populations where food allergies may pose life-threatening risks. For this reason, food service establishments must effectively identify and communicate the presence of these allergens, ensuring the safety of their customers.

The other options consist of food items that, while some may cause allergies in specific individuals, do not comprise the widely recognized list of the top food allergens. This distinction is essential for understanding the most common and dangerous allergens that need to be carefully managed in any food handling or service situation.