Beyond The Shell | National Food Allergy Initiative

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Food Allergy Silent Epidemic

33M

33 million Americans

have food allergy

1:10

1 in 10 adults

have food allergy

1:13

1 in 13 children have food allergy—that's roughly two in every classroom.

:10

Every 10 seconds a food allergy reaction sends a patient to the ER.

Food Allergy
is a Disease

Welcome to Beyond The Shell, a platform built by someone living with a life-threatening food allergy, for the millions navigating them every day. With over 33 million Americans affected, managing food allergies isn’t just a health concern. It’s a daily obstacle in schools, restaurants, planes, workplaces, and everywhere food is present. Beyond The Shell cuts through the noise with curated news, breakthrough innovations, events, and practical resources — all designed to empower, inform, and support a community that deserves clarity, safety, and connection.

Food Allergy Awareness Walk - May 31.png

Food Allergy Awareness Fundraising Walk Returns

May 31, 2026 | Mitchell Park, Palo Alto

Our 2nd Annual Food Allergy Awareness Walk is returning to Mitchell Park on Sunday, May 31st at 10:00am, bringing together families, advocates, and supporters from across the Bay Area to raise awareness, support education, and advance food allergy research.

Following a successful inaugural event that raised over $3,000 for FARE (Food Allergy Research & Education) to support innovation and bring us closer to better treatments and a cure, this year’s walk promises to be even bigger. Hosted by Beyond The Shell in collaboration with EatWithoutWorry, the event will feature limited-edition t-shirts for the first 50 registered attendees who attend, allergy-friendly snacks and drinks from over a dozen sponsors, food provided by Kitava Kitchen, educational resources, and opportunities to connect with the food allergy community.

We are excited to welcome Sharon Wong, M.Ed., founder of Nut Free Wok, cookbook author, and food allergy advocate, as this year’s special guest speaker. Thanks to the support of our generous sponsors and partners, including Stanford Medicine – Sean N. Parker Center for Allergy & Asthma Research, Latitude Food Allergy Care, EpiPen, Auvi-Q, Abe’s Muffins, Free2b Foods, OWYN, That’s it., Crema Coffee Roasting Company, Bare Snacks, HIPPEAS, Every Body Eat, Canary Marketing, and more, this year’s event continues to grow in impact and reach.

Whether you are personally affected by food allergies or simply want to support a safer, more informed community, we invite you to join us to walk, learn, connect, and advocate. This is only the beginning.

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California bill would require restaurants to disclose food allergens on menus

SAN JOSE, Calif. (AP) — Braxton Kimura dreads eating at restaurants. The California teenager is severely allergic to peanuts, shellfish and most tree nuts. Consuming even a tiny amount could send him to the emergency room.

The Last Bite

Food Allergy Documentary (2025)
Creator, Director, Producer Braxton Kimura

The Last Bite is a powerful short documentary that explores the everyday realities of a teenager living with a life-threatening food allergy. From reading labels at the grocery store to navigating meals at school, restaurants, friends’ houses, and while traveling, every bite carries risk. This film offers an inside look at the constant vigilance required to stay safe and the emotional and social impact of living with an invisible, life-altering condition.

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Latest Food Allergy Treatments

There is currently no cure for food allergies. The most widely used and essential approach remains strict allergen avoidance, which requires constant vigilance—carefully reading ingredient labels, double-checking with restaurant staff, and taking steps to avoid cross-contact in all environments. While avoidance is the foundation of food allergy management, there are also emerging and established treatments that are gaining attention. Based on my personal research and ongoing efforts to stay informed, as well as my own experience being involved in clinical trials, waitlists, rejections, and even withdrawing from therapies, I’ve outlined some of the top innovations in food allergy treatment. These treatments vary in clinical use, research support, and risk profiles. This is not medical advice or a recommendation for any specific treatment. Please consult with your healthcare provider for guidance tailored to your needs.

FDA approved

Oral Immunotherapy (OIT)

Gradually increases small doses of allergen that is eaten to build tolerance.
FDA-approved treatment: Palforzia for peanut allergy in kids ages 4–17.
Can reduce risk of severe reactions from accidental exposure, but not a cure.
Anaphylaxis can occur any time with Palforzia.
Therapy can take six months or longer.
Consult your healthcare provider.

FDA approved

Biologics (Monoclonal Antibodies)

Xolair (omalizumab) is an injectable anti-IgE antibody that reduce allergic reactions.
Used on its own or alongside OIT to make treatment safer.
Intended for repeated use to reduce the risk of allergic reactions.
Must continue to avoid foods they are allergic to.
Consult your healthcare provider.

In trial; not FDA approved

Epicutaneous Immunotherapy (EPIT)

Allergen patches (like Viaskin Peanut) worn on the skin deliver tiny amounts over time.
Less invasive than OIT; good option for younger kids.
In late-stage trials with promising results.
Consult your healthcare provider.

In trial; not FDA approved

Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT)

Small doses of allergen placed under the tongue daily.
Less risky than OIT, but not as widely used yet.
Still being researched for long-term effectiveness.
Consult your healthcare provider.

In The
News

Hello, I'm Braxton.

Founder, Beyond The Shell

Peanuts, tree nuts, and shellfish—these are the words I repeat every time before eating anything. I was diagnosed with a life-threatening peanut allergy at 14 months old, and every day, I am grateful to be here. My mission is to redefine the way food allergies are understood and supported, creating a safer, more inclusive world for everyone living with them. Your participation, support, or donation will help fund critical food allergy research. It's time to change the game!