Experts have stated that there is no evidence to support the idea that substances causing nut allergies spread through aircraft ventilation systems and pose a risk to passengers with allergies.

Researchers at Imperial College London in the UK recently published in the Archives of Disease in Childhood the results of a systematic review of evidence published since 1980, commissioned by the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) in 2023, to dispel some misconceptions about the risk of exposure to nuts for passengers with nut allergies on commercial aircraft.

 

According to the report, the main risk factors that could trigger food allergies are allergenic substances remaining on surfaces such as overhead compartments or video screens behind seats in the aircraft. Additionally, the risk may be further increased due to the quick turnaround times of many low-cost airlines (the preparation time between aircraft arrival and departure).

Additionally, residues left in the process of removing nut shells may remain in the air to some extent, but since they quickly settle to the ground and are removed through the aircraft's filtration system, the risk of spreading through the air can be considered negligible. The ventilation system inside the aircraft is designed to circulate the entire cabin, and during flight, the air is circulated every 3 to 4 minutes, meaning that about half of the air inside the cabin is re-circulated air that has passed through filters.

 

Protein in food is often sticky, so it is highly likely that unintended exposure to allergens occurs due to contamination of surfaces such as seats, entertainment systems behind seats, and seat shelves. After touching these surfaces, there is a risk of exposure to allergens while eating food.

 

The researchers stated that disinfectant wipes can be used to wipe potentially contaminated surfaces before starting a flight to minimize risks. They also emphasized that this is especially important considering that many low-cost airlines only perform minimal cleaning inside the cabin between flights.

 

However, there is an opinion that requesting passengers not to consume nuts during the flight may not significantly reduce the risk. It was also advised that passengers who are at risk of severe anaphylactic reactions to certain foods should carry an auto-injector such as an EpiPen (epinephrine). The researchers stated, "Airlines should clearly establish policies regarding food allergies that can be provided on their websites or upon passenger request," and added, "Both ground staff and cabin crew must apply these policies consistently to reassure passengers and guardians with food allergies."

 

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Substances that cause nut allergies

It can spread through the aircraft's ventilation system.

Experts have expressed the opinion that there is no evidence to support the recognition.

 

You can avoid eating nuts during the flight; it would be better not to consume them.