Soy Allergy and Foods To Avoid
95Sources of Soy and Label Issues
Soy is one of the top 8 food allergens in the world.
For those of us who are allergic to soy, reactions can range from mild (hives, canker sores, itching) to moderate (abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, wheezing) to severe (dizziness, drop in blood pressure, loss of consciousness, anaphylaxis and death).
My soy allergy is considered moderate to severe. I do not have an anaphylactic reaction, however, if I consume soy I can suffer from excruciating abdominal pain, diarrhea, uncontrollable vomiting (that has caused me to be hospitalized), chest pain, drop in blood pressure, rhinitis and itching.
How severe my reaction is, is determined by the type of soy I ingest and the amount.
One of the biggest issues in North America regarding a soy allergy is that soy is added to almost every food product on the market. In other countries in the world the use of soy as an additive and filler is not as widespread.
Why Is Soy Added to So Many Foods in North America?
The US government subsidized soy production. Farmers wishing to make more money switched to growing soy. The more soy that was produced the lower the price became. As the price of soy dropped manufacturers decided it was in their best interest to replace more expensive ingredients with the cheaper soy counterpart. Now almost every manufactured food contains a soy derived ingredient.
Case in point: 98% of bread related products contain soy and many varieties of herbal tea contain soy as a filler.
Case in point: manufacturers now remove expensive peanut oil from peanut butter and replace it with vegetable oil (a cheap blend that contains soy oil). They then sell the peanut oil separately to make more money.
Labeling
This overuse of soy wouldn't be as much of an issue for allergy sufferers if products that contained soy were labeled clearly, but in Canada they are not.
There are supposed to be labeling laws regarding the top 8 food allergens. The truth is though, when it comes to soy, a product must contain a certain amount or a certain type in order for the allergy warning to be listed.
The theory behind this is that a tiny percentage of soy won't cause that much of a problem and so it doesn't need to be labeled clearly. This is ridiculous!
While there are not as many people who go into anaphylactic shock from a soy allergy as there are from a peanut allergy, it still happens and this nonchalant attitude about labeling needs to stop.
Case in point: soy protein is used as a binding agent for natural flavors. On the label manufacturers in Canada simply list 'natural flavor' as an ingredient. In this case they are not required to add the 'contains soy' allergy warning or even list 'soy' in brackets after the ingredient. (As of 2009).
(This nasty little trick got me. I was tired and hungry after a long day and I grabbed a packet of 'all natural fruit gummies' while running errands in order to boost my blood sugar. They were supposed to contain only fruit juices and gelatin, however, at the bottom of the label in small writing was 'natural flavor'. I missed it and spent the evening in the fetal position with excruciating abdominal pain. The diarrhea followed the next day.)
In the USA food labeling laws that came into effect in 2006 mean manufacturers have to follow a stricter protocol for soy labeling than in Canada.
Following is a list of ingredients that are derived from soy:
Akara
Bulking Agent
Boullion
Carob
Edamame
Emulsifiers (if unspecified)
Gum Arabic
Guar Gum
Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein or Hydrolyzed Protein (HVP)
Isoflavones
Isolated Soy Protein
Isolates
Kinako
Kouridofu
Lecithin
Miso
Mono and Diglycerides
Mono Sodium Glutamates (MSG)
Natto
Natural, Organic or Artificial Flavors (if the flavor isn't listed in brackets beside it then it's most likely soy-based)
Olean
Protein
Shoyu Sauce
Soja
Soy (anything with this term included)
Soybeans
Soy Oil (Crisco, Pam Spray etc)
Soy Protein Concentrate
Tamari
Tempeh
Teriyaki
Textured Soy Flour (TSF)
Textured Soy Protein (TSP)
Textured Plant Protein (TVP)
Thickener
Tofu
Tofutti
Unspecified Sprouts
Vegetable Broth
Vegetable Gum
Vegetable Paste
Vegetable Protein
Vegetable Oil
Vegetable Shortening
Vegetable Starch
Vitamin E
Yuba
Instant coffee
Margarine
Canned tuna
Mayonnaise
As you can see the list is extensive!
Unfortunately buying fruit (what should be a safe product) is problematic too. Commercial companies apply wax and sometimes soy oil spray directly onto their products. Apples are particularly bad for this. To be safe you must buy certified organic produce or fruit (like bananas) that you can peel.
And soy is not only added to food products but also soaps, cleaning products, medicines (always tell the pharmacist and doctor you have a soy allergy), shampoos, moisturizers, printing ink and other products used on a daily basis.
Always check the label each time you buy something. Companies change their recipes often. Never become complacent about checking the ingredient list!
Also, people with soy allergies can be sensitive or allergic to other legumes as well. Be careful with chick peas, peanuts, lentils, peas, beans and other legumes until you know it is safe to eat them. (I found I have an intolerance to chick peas and must avoid them too.)
A Word About Soy Oil
In articles on respected medical sites, in doctor offices and some health expert forums it is consistently stated that soy oil is safe for people with a soy allergy. They say this because soy oil usually does not contain the soy protein.
THIS INFORMATION IS WRONG AND DANGEROUS!
While it is true that some people with a soy allergy do not react to soy oil, many of us do. My reaction to soy oil is SEVERE. It will cause me to vomit so much that my potassium levels bottom out and I end up in hospital. Other people with anaphylactic reactions to soy have almost died from exposure to soy oil.
I also react to lecithin (made from soy), which is another ingredient claimed to be safe for soy allergy sufferers.
Talk to your Doctor about this issue and be careful with ingesting any soy product.
Eating Out
For anyone with a food allergy eating out can be difficult. Luckily I have noticed a trend in restaurants recently that is making it easier for the soy allergic. A lot of places have switched to using canola oil, olive oil or butter in their kitchens.
ALWAYS ASK WHAT KIND OF OIL IS USED IN THE KITCHEN!
This is important as you may choose a dish that is seemingly soy free and have a reaction because they use generic vegetable oil or Pam spray to cook with.
Always inform your waiter, the manager or the chef about your allergy. If they seem to not understand or take it seriously then find another place to eat. Also make sure to tell them that you can't eat soy or vegetable oil. The general public is not aware that soy is a major ingredient in vegetable oil.
I reside in Vancouver (Canada) and am lucky as most people in the city are health conscious and very aware of allergies. The waiters take the time to find out what dishes are safe and what dishes are not. As such I have a long list of restaurants here that I can safely dine in.
When I travel I have to be more careful.
If you are traveling to a country with a foreign language always carry a translated allergy alert card that you can show to wait staff. If the country you're traveling in has two major languages include both on the card. This should always be a part of your pre-trip planning. By using this strategy I have been able to travel extensively without falling ill.
Airlines and Allergies
The biggest difficulty to travel for people with a soy allergy are the airlines. No airline currently offers soy-free meals. It is one of the top 8 allergens, with many doctors now placing it in the top 4, and yet you cannot order a soy-free meal.
They have dairy-free, gluten-free, nut-free, egg-free, meat-free, seafood-free but not soy-free!
This is extremely frustrating. They will cater to vegetarians whose food requirements are voluntary, yet they do not provide an option for people who have an allergy that could be fatal. It doesn't make sense.
A lot of the countries I travel to require me to be on a plane for 14+ hours straight. It is very difficult (especially with new carry-on restrictions) to bring enough food for flights of this duration. The only meal I can feel safe ordering on a plane is the fruit platter. This is not enough food for a long haul flight.
Airlines need to provide a soy-free option!
Soy-Free Products in Canada
While it is frustrating trying to find products that do not contain soy; there are companies who voluntarily list every ingredient and source on the label, including any 'trace amount issues'. To these companies I salute you!
**Please note: I decided to remove company lists as policies and products change too frequently.
Remember to always check the label or ask if food contains soy before eating. If you have severe contact allergies be especially careful about cross contamination and always carry your Epi-pen.
Happy soy free living!
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Bob Ewing: Thanks for stopping by. My mistake with the fruit gummies the other day inspired me to inform others of the issues with soy. Hope it helps!
Thanks for a great article on soy allergy. Your well-researched and anecdotal words really drive the important points home, whether one's allergy is to soy, wheat, peanuts, shellfish, or anything else. The important points being, read ingredients carefully (and become adept at reading between the lines, so to speak), plan ahead for dinners out, question restaurants about their ingredients, and know the symptoms of your allergy (I'm sure you know that many food allergy sufferers don't realize the causes of their symptoms for a long time).
I had to comment on your Hub for another reason, one of those twists of fate, and I guess a bit of an irony here...my daughter was deathly ill as an infant with persistent diarrhea and vomiting, and the subsequent failure to gain weight. Fortunately, her doctor was able to identify these symptoms as a cow milk allergy, switched her to a soy-based formula, and she thrived. The same allergy appeared in my grandmother's infant sister, back in 1894...baby Dusty Rose died because she could not tolerate milk.
There are curses and blessings with soy (and cow milk, and every other food). Your Hub should be a must-read for every mother and father.
Best regards, Sally
Sally's Trove: Wow, thank you for your kind words! If this article helps anyone else with allergies that's what's important to me. And you're right about it taking a long time to understand what your sypmtoms are. Mine are obvious to me now but for years it baffled me and the doctors.
Glad to hear your daughter's allergy was caught and she thrived afterward. :D
My daughter has had similar symptoms for almost half a year now. Her first "Dr" had her keep a spreadsheet of what she ate etc. and she diagnosed herself. Her internest has done a scope on her stomach and sm. intestines and then a sonigram of gallbladder. I think her stress over feeling so bad and having to work and take care of three school age children is adding to the problem. It has even been suggested that it's all in her head. Thanks for a full description of your symptoms and the extensive list of resources.
Carolyn Gibbons: Thank you for your comments. I hope your daughter gets the help she needs. Sometimes it's not easy to get Dr's to truly listen. You have to be your own best advocate. Good luck with it all. :)
That's long list! Glad I'm not allergic to soy, but I'll keep this hub in mind if I run across the path of someone who is allergic to it.
Cheers!
Chef Jeff T.
Chef Jeff: Thanks for stopping by. Hope the list is helpful. :)
i wish i would have found this page 8 months ago, my son was liven in hell and the doctors keep saying there was nothing wrong. after many long trips to UofM we now know, but now in trying to feed him and help the school feed him i am glad you have the list i have been looking for
Thank you for this information Rfox its invaluable.:)
mmb: I feel your pain! It takes a long time sometimes for Dr's to know exactly what's going on. Glad to hear he's doing better now.
David R.: Thanks for your comments! Hope the info helps.
Thank you for this great and informative information. I for one am very inquisitive about what I consume, but my reason is more for avoiding Genetically Modified Foods. With more people developing allergies, and other digestive problems, I would pause when it comes to suggesting known, and unknown sauces of GMO foods which ultimately could be the true sauce of most good allergens.
This is great information...thank you. My 5 year old son is allergic to soy and rye. Rye is easy to avoid, but soy is not! It is in practically everything. We find that the longer the ingredient list, the more likely it is that it contains soy. I share the same frustrations with labeling (and lack there of) of soy ingredients. I plan to submit letters to lawmakers and the FDA because this is a danger to people who are allergic to soy. We have made the decision that we just can't eat out anymore. There is one local market/shop that is careful with allergens and is willing to work with us. Thanks for sharing your research. I hope things get easier for you!
I'm gald that I found this page! It's so hard to avoid soy but I didn't know alot of the things on the list. I am allergic to soy, dairy and have Celiac. I'm very careful and know what to avoid for the latter but now know why I am still having some issues. Thank you!
This list is great. It is also helpful to list more "whole" ingredients that contain soy for people who are just starting out- things like margarine, shortening, and mayonnaise. These are also helpful when asking friends or family if that dip, pie, or whatever they made contains soy ingredients. A lot of people have no idea what things contain soy, i.e., grandma will tell you she used shortening in her pie crust, but will have no clue that shortening is made from soybean oil.
Interesting hub. I had heard about issues with soy intake and allergies. Soy seems to be everywhere these days. It would be beneficial to most people to read up on it first before they decide to eat it.
My 7 year old is allrgic to soy, we found out by chance when his gastro. dr. did an allergy test on him one day. we could never figure out why he would break out in what seemed like spontanius hives or spend a morning throwing up when he seemed otherwise healthy. Finding foods that don't have soy seems imposible these days, and people look at me like i'm nuts when i ask if something has soy in it, and some have not belived me when i said my son is allergic. Most people just don't understand why i dont just give him benedryl and "be happy you get a couple hours of him sleeping" His allergy is getting worse as he gets older, he has an epi-pen for his peanut allergy, and it's looking like it might also be for a soy emergency. Thank you for your article, it's good to know there are other people who have just as many struggles with this.
Thank you for the comments everyone!
Avoiding soy is no easy task in modern society. Unfortunately the easiest way to avoid soy is to cook everything from scratch the old fashioned way. With fresh, raw ingredients you can create safe dishes. (Please be careful with any spice mixes or cheap spices as these may contain soy as a filler.)
Not as convenient as buying precooked foods but a lot safer. There are more and more companies coming on the market who cater to the allergic individual and I search a lot of specialty stores to find these products.
Don't give up on finding treats you can eat! I believe after years I may have finally found a chocolate company that provides soy free chocolate. A hard thing to find.
(I still have to order and test the chocolate for myself. I will write about it after I try it.)
Also for those of you who like sushi it makes a great alternative to fast food. BE CAREFUL: The only safe products in a sushi restaurant/take away are sashimi (raw fish) or nigiri sushi (raw fish on rice). Usually sushi places keep their ingredients separated but ALWAYS tell them about your allergy and always check about cross contamination! NEVER eat any of the rolls or dishes with sauces/mayonnaise as these will contain soy.
@Katie: I'm sorry you have to deal with ignorant people. I know it can be frustrating! The best thing is to simply educate them if you can and ignore them if you can't. There are lots of wonderful people out there for support who understand what you are going through.
Avoiding Soy is no easy task as you say. The fact is everybody got sucked into thinking it was a good source of protein and so the food industry added it to almost everything. But its now found to be a poor and to many - as you've explained - dangerous source of protein. Tremendous information in your hub.
Thank you so much for this list. There were a couple items I didn't know about. I'm adding them to my hidden soy/gluten "card". I keep it in my wallet. Makes label checking easy.
My husband and I avoid both Soy, and Gluten. He is a diagnosed Celiac. I had Thyroid issues, and read soy can aggravate these problems, and there is some concern it can even damage thyroid function in healthy people. I didn't want to take the risk, and cut it out of my diet. It was easier to adopt each-others eating habits, cook from scratch and label check.
Eating anywhere but home is a nightmare, though. There are lots of ignorant people who not only get angry and defensive if you ask about possible allergens, but tell me my problem anorexia, he must be pretentious. (I agree though, BC is pretty nice. MUCH easier to get friendly service then Ontario) Since I cut the soy, (and gluten) my thyroid function has normalized, and I am no longer sickly, weak and vitamin deficient. I feel like I have my life back. That alone is worth not ever eating out, and needing to carry food with.
You have me wondering, is there anywhere in Vancouver that offers true soy/gluten free fare?
A real eye-opener. I just found out that I'm allergic to soy after years of progressively worse diarrhea & stomach pain. I find soy oil is worse than soy protein & your mention of apples explains why sometimes I get a stomach ache after eating one. Now that I know what health feels like, I'm never going back to soy!
Having come across this page recently, and being allergic to soy, I remember what it was like on my holiday in North America some years back and having difficulty deciphering food labels. I come from Australia and food labelling laws fortunately require soy to be declared in the ingredient list whenever present. It seems as though lecithin and oil even though derived from soy don't seem to be a problem in Australia for soy allergic individuals and claims have been made that emulsifiers and antioxidants from soy are safe. Tests today show it to not contain any protein derived from soy at limit level of 1ppm. I have been alright with it here but am told to avoid soy lecithin and soy oil if I travel internationally.
Soy allergy is not as common a problem in Australia, but I feel lucky due to the many soy free products available. Australia is probably the best place in the world when it comes to awareness of food allergies.
I have recently found out I am allergic to soy, and it appears that my allergy is getting much worse. Over the past 4 to 5 years I have had several instances of "food poising" from eating out, but have just realized that this was due to the allergy. In the last year I have had constant problems with asthma that never seems to be under control. I have had constant blisters under my tongue and even mild swelling of my tongue that makes breathing hard. After cutting out all soy, my asthma is finally under control, and I have not been plagued with any episodes of severe stomach aches, vomiting, and diarrhea. My skin 'breakouts' have improved as well. But the thing that I have seen the most change in is my joints. This is the first time that I have been pain free in years.
I have gained over 100 lbs in the last 5 years, and have been reading up on the negative impact that soy can have on thyroid function. My levels are with n the normal range but I have had such extreme weight gains and became very inactive due to the pain in my joints that I am not sure if my levels are normal for me.
I am still having problems sleeping but living soy free is making me feel that I have my life back. I am starting to regain my energy. Does anyone know how long it will take to feel completely normal and for the weight to start coming off? I have been off soy for a month now.
I really enjoy this page. Because I just found out that my 2 year old is allergic to Soy. I had asked his doctors several months ago to test him, he told me he would grow out of this. I have noticed that it is very hard to find foods that does not have soy in them, I will use the list that you have provided. People are very ignorate when it comes to people have allergy to foods. I noticed that my child would not have a bowel movement for days and then when he would he would strain. He would break out in hives all over his face and arms. He would have trouble breathing when he sleeps. I have a hard time explaining to a 2 year old that he can not have certain foods that he really likes. I will have to cook all of his foods to send to school, which they feel as though he could eat what they cook that still have soy in the products. He actually starts sleeping through the night.
Once again I would like to thank you for this great information.
I recently found this website http://soyfreeaustralia.yolasite.com constructed today in fact. It has some very useful points and a soy free chocolate by the name of Cocolo was mentioned. I don't know if you can get these products mentioned in North America but they sell them in Australian Health Food stores.
@Colleen I'm really sorry about your child, and you too, I suppose. Keep looking for alternatives. It is hard to avoid soy because it is so underestimated these days. Many people I interact with don't seem to think being allergic to soy is that bad as they assume it's just in soy sauce, tofu, etc, until I mention that it is VERY hard to find a bread with no soy. Even harder than a gluten free bread. I do hope life gets easier for you and your son. Have you tried any local restaurants? They may be able to adapt meals or have menu items that are soy free.
@RFox was the brand of the soy free chocolate you mentioned earlier Cocolo?
The brand new website http://soyfreegroup.yolasite.com was launched today to help offer support to individuals requiring a soy free diet in North America (USA and Canada). Be sure to visit, support them by clicking their advertisements and provide constructive feedback. This is an Australian-based group but are planning to expand internationally. The group is very interested in hearing what all of you have to say!
My son is allergic to soy and peanuts,(not to mention everything but daisys and dandilions) and I found out since we cook alot of asian food, one of the main things we had to do without is soy sauce, we insted use worchestire (or whatever it is called) in place of soy sauce. just make sure you check the label and make sure that it contains Anchovies paste insted of a soy-based paste and that should be ok :-O
Bryan,
Be sure to look at http://soyfreegroup.yolasite.com/ for some soy free foods. I was surprised at what they had, including a catering resource. Be sure to have a look as they may just have what you need in the way of a soy free alternative for soy sauce.
I know it is very frustrating to avoid with such little support compared to celiac disease suffers, vegetarians, etc. Hang in there!
Hi everyone!
Sorry it has been so long since I've commented. Thank you to you all for taking the time to write.
Since I last visited I've moved to the other side of the country and am setting up shop here in Montreal....land of gourmet food!
Of course this has brought on my challenge to now locate a whole new selection of soy free foods and places to eat here. Luckily one of the first things I learned in french was "I'm allergic to soy, I cannot eat....(insert list here)"
The challenge continues in North America to find soy free foods. Since being here I've made a few small mistakes and paid for it but so far I've managed to avoid the two day vomit fest of a major reaction. Phew!!
@Kelly: I grew up in Australia and you're right...it is much easier to avoid soy Down Under. In Australia wheat is king (bad for celiac's, good for the soy allergic). In North America soy is king and it's in everything.
In Canada life is more difficult also because the labeling laws are still not as strict as other western countries. There is a whole piece of new labeling legislation tabled in parliament but it's been there since about 2006....fingers crossed it will actually happen soon!
This legislation will require manufacturers to write in plain english after ingredients whether they contain one of the top eight allergens including soy. This will bring Canada inline with the stricter US labeling laws. About time I say!!
@Anne: I always found Capers Markets, Choices or Whole Foods was a good place to start in Vancouver for allergy free food. They usually list all ingredients and have many unadulterated organic products without fillers and emulsifiers.
Everyone with a soy allergy also needs to be very careful if products say emulsifiers on the label as it is almost always soy. There can also be undeclared soy emulsifiers in coconut milk and coconut cream (only the most sensitive will react to this.) Klassic coconut brand does not contain soy (always check labels though in case of changes!)
Happy soy free hunting everyone!
Cheers,
Rachelle
Rachelle, thank you for posting this! Your comment on one of my hubs led me to check out your recent hubs - this is solid information for anyone with a soy allergy. Very helpful and rated up! :)
Thanks!! Been awhile since I've been to HubPages to check on my hubs. Life got in the way. Glad to see my info is still helpful. I should find the time to write some new ones. haha
I really loved your pics!
Did you ever try the soy free chocolate you set out for?
Do commercial companies apply wax and sometimes soy oil spray directly onto their products in Australia, out of interest?
Hi infonolan!
Actually yes, my kitchen is currently stocked with soy free chocolate and in fact I am planning a series of hubs on them soon. Trying to get back to my writing. Thanks for reminding me of that!
Unfortunately I don't know about Australia and the sprays and wax. I haven't lived there in 11 years, however, I do know that the health regulations and allergen issues in Australia are much more tightly controlled than they are here. So you will have an easier time in Oz.
If you eat certified organic fruit and vegetables though you will be fine anywhere. Producers are not allowed to add anything to certified organic fruits and vegies. So when I want to eat apples I head for the nearest organic apple supplier.
Cheers.
Thanks for the info. I have recently developed an allergy to soy and seem to be very sensitive to the oil. It seems that most allergists don't seem to think you can be allergic to the oil, butI have reacted to soy oil in fabric softener and lip gloss. I don't even need to ingest it to react and just a little seems to make me break out in hives. Most people think that is not a sever reaction, but when you have hives head to toe including under your feet, it is NOT a fun experience. Good luck in Montreal!
I take false advertising with regard to gluten and allergen free products very seriously. I have published a blog entry re Burger Edge about this and am alerting anyone who lives in Australia near a franchise. I am warning about undeclared soy and dairy in the allergen matrix on their site. Blog post: http://hubpages.com/hub/Burger-Edge-edgy-gluten-fr
Thanks infonolan for being so vigilant!
It's crazy that companies would exploit our allergies for profit. Arghhh....
At least in Oz there are strict laws regarding 'gluten free'. Did you know in North America that something can be labeled 'gluten free' if it does not naturally contain gluten, despite the fact it may be processed on a line with gluten containing flours etc?
They have been doing tests lately and a lot of the 'gluten free' stuff is failing because of cross contamination. So scary and sad.
Seriously, if you are going to promote allergy free products then they indeed must be allergy free! How can this be so hard to understand?
I drank a supposed 'soy free' rice milk here and had a reaction. It was a different brand to my usual but I trusted that if the manufacturer goes to the trouble of labeling it 'soy free' you'd think they would make sure there was no soy.
And unfortunately I have to avoid all commercial bread related products now because of soy contamination. If I don't make it myself I can't risk eating it.
Which sux considering bread shouldn't and doesn't need to HAVE SOY IN IT!
Bread recipes in the past NEVER contained soy...what are we doing to ourselves?
Okay..rant over...back to the usual programming...
Recently, I read that Soy contains lots of cancer causing agents and that toxins in soy are not completely removed.
givingfairy, there is so much debate as to whether soy is healthy or not. From much that I've heard of, even organic (non-GM) non-fermented soy products are known to be harmful as well. It is extremely difficult to digest and is not a complete protein at all. Here's a video I found: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RjZs0DGW1Jk
I would suggest that everyone thinks for themselves in this regard, however it is rather bizarre how our food industry works. Beats me, anyway :P
From some of my research, I have a slight feeling that the two most GM'd foods (i.e. soy (no. 1), corn (no. 2)) could well be responsible for many of the food issues present in today's society. You may be interested in my hub on corn gluten http://hubpages.com/hub/BEWARE-Corn-Gluten-is-NOT-
I guess we should all remember, soy is a food that virtually did not exist at one point of time. Soy flour and soy protein isolates are two substances that much of the general public, today, don't even know about. When my friend tells others she has problems with soy at social functions, etc. the response is often this: "That's simple, Just ask for a dish without soy sauce (no mention about types of oils or protein isolates or anything like that)." I am very wary of soy and although not allergic or intolerant to it, I always do my best to find soy free alternatives (particularly with non-fermented soy products). Two friends of mine are allergic to soy (one of whom also has coeliac disease on top of her allergy). Soy free bread is now very difficult to find, virtually impossible at regular supermarkets too.
I really feel for those who have to avoid soy, and put up with all the "nonsense" with regard to this allergen. Domino's Pizza in Australia is a prime example on which Alice, a friend of mine recently filled me in on the details on this page in the comments about their use of soy oil: http://hubpages.com/hub/glutenfreepizza-not
She is far more patient than me, however I can understand where she's coming from. It's such a shame that consumers in this day and age are only seen with one eye.
I don't mean to be negative RFox but thought it would be useful for both you and your commenters to know that there are others out there that feel the same way. Keep informing us of your findings.
Hey infonolan,
I don't think you're being negative. I completely understand the frustration. So many manufacturers just don't get it and don't care to try.
It's too difficult and requires too much work to actually find out what things may actually be in their product lines. Others just use these artificial 'enhancements' because they are cheaper.
Maybe I'm just too logical a person but it doesn't make sense to me why we add all these bizarre ingredients into food products that should be naturally allergen free.
Eg: Bread. I should be able to eat bread. In parts of the world where traditional bread making is still normal, I can eat bread. Yet, here in North America, pretty much all bread products are contaminated with soy. It just doesn't make sense.
If anyone wants to have a glimpse into why our food products are so messed up there's an interesting documentary that came out a few years ago called: Food Inc.
Eye-opening insight into why things are so messed up.
I've been dealing with allergies to soy and corn for over 20 years. My worst symptom is severe asthma. It has never been as difficult here in the USA to find foods without either. I do find some brands of Italian bread, particularly bakery brands that are free of both. I also find it helpful if I'm going to eat in a restaurant, to see if that restaurant has a web site with nutritional and allergy information prior to going.
@JanL: Wow, soy and corn. That's got to be almost impossible! I feel for you. I always say the only thing worse than soy to avoid in the USA is corn. It's literally everywhere and undeclared on top of that.
Thanks for sharing!
Hello and thank you SO much for posting this very informative article!! I was recently diagnosed with a SOY allergy as well as tree nuts and a variety of other things. My allergist told me a SOY allergy in adults is rare...lucky us ;) He also said that it will be very hard to avoid and WOW...I just didn't realize the extent that SOY is in pretty much everything. Anyway I truly appreciate your information and would love any additional info or links you can provide! THANK YOU!!
Soy allergies are some of the most under diagnosed of food allergies (~90% undiagnosed), which is why it appears rare in adults. Such a shame it's so hard to avoid. Grrrrr....
A friend of mine told me about your well-written online page on soy allergies. I'm allergic to soy (along with lentils and possibly have to be careful with chic peas) but am flabbergasted about just how 'neglected' we, as common allergy sufferers, are. Thankfully, here in oz, the use of soy oil is not very widely used in commercially manufactured products. Yet, I might add that many restaurants and food service outlets here cannot accommodate a soy free diet for only one reason - the use of soy oil (aka vegetable oil).
[FORGET the myth about soy oil being safe for soy-allergic individuals - IT IS NOT SAFE! I will tell you that right now! Further did you know that THESE sorts of claims made by doctors and the soy industry are just excuses to defend the food industry so they can keep soying all our foods?!]
I always knew soy was in a lot of food but before having to avoid it, I did not realise that 'vegetable oil' carried a large burden on soy allergy sufferers but was prepared to live with the fact that I had to avoid a vast majority of food outlets for this reason.
I coped fairly well with my allergy for years and did not really make my frustration known for years.
Since then, however, I have noticed so many companies and food outlets have been beginning to recognise food issues such as coeliac disease and particularly dairy and nut allergies.
Though the things that really make me fume are ludicrous missions like Domino's Pizza Australia and New Zealand 'bending over backwards' to *give* coeliacs a gluten free pizza choice (the base is laden with SOY and the pizza can't be guaranteed to be gluten free due to the nature of the environment), yet not address a simple issue like the OIL. I have been onto Domino's Pizza here for YEARS on their use of soy oil!
They have a plain thin'n'crispy pizza base which ISN'T mixed with margarine (unlike their other bases), etc. yet they INSIST that their workers prepare ALL their pizza dough using SOY OIL!!!
Honestly, how hard is it to change the base oil! Much much MUCH easier than chasing up gluten free bases and dealing with the surrounding people on their backs for gluten free false advertising etc. etc. etc. (which I'm so glad is happening!).
Yet the CHOOSE to ignore US!! Being a common allergen, subject to labelling laws where I live, I just don't get WHY they cannot switch to canola oil.
I may also mention a nice, clean, trendy small Mexican franchise which has just started up. I went into one of their stores one evening about two weeks ago and asked about which options might be soy free. I got a VERY blank stare and the serving guy was quite arrogant if I remember correctly. He informed me that they don't use any "soy sauce" in their recipes (which I never thought they did in the first place, *snort* (I think the server was *snorting* more than I was, as I had assumed they used soy sauce. :/)). I then asked about their meats and the server responded, "the meats are fine, there's no soy, we just cook them in vegetable oil!". I politely explained that the generic 'vegetable' term is used for the purpose of describing products that contain soy and that 'vegetable oil' is simply the generic name for soy oil (I had him check the ingredients, so he believed me). He was gobsmacked (*and so was I :-\*)! Unfortunately there were no options as a result. I suggested to him that they use canola oil instead, as this is cost-competitive and doesn't contain any common allergens. He simply responded that they just get what their suppliers give them so I tweeted the franchise on twitter a couple of times. No response. They clearly aren't interested in addressing this, despite the fact that all of their other ingredients are safe. They have a peanut policy in store outlining that they work in a peanut free environment and that they are allergy aware but for some reason do not seem to care one bit about soy (despite the fact that soy is a common anaphylactic food culprit)! COME ON!
[I recently conducted a phone calling hunt of all the mexican food chains/restaurants/franchises around the country (about 30 if I remember correctly), only to find 4 who knew what I was talking about and finally 1 in Western Australia that used canola oil for cooking their meats and was able to actually offer true soy free mexican cuisine (no franchises at all :@)!]
Dairy-free choc-coated cookies are another example - companies are trying to deny the soy issues present and are making food items like this free of everything but soy. sigh.
Over the years I have learnt to cry less and laugh more. Laugh at just how ludicrous the food industry is. Laugh at just how stupid fast food outlets can be by denying the 'soy' allergen and insisting on using vegetable oil. Laugh at the fact that businesses won't even acknowledge that soy is one of the most un-diagnosed allergens. Laugh at the fact that companies will put 'so much' effort into producing gluten free and dairy free chocolate cookies (breaking their backs to do so, too) yet completely turn their backs on us, when all we request is a SIMPLE alternative to soy! Laugh at the fact that whilst several respected studies have shown that 'soy' may be responsible for all sorts of other conditions such as coeliac disease, lactose intolerance, etc. manufacturers will 'fix the problem' and not 'address the possible cause'.
Thankfully I have found some businesses here to be really helpful and I can almost always get french fries from McDonald's if there's nothing else wherever I am! Hope things become easier with regard to soy allergies in North America.
Thank you Rachelle for this information. The words of both you and your commenters' words have made me see this diet from an entirely different perspective.
I might also add that my experience of being on a soy free diet has often been an adventurous one. If ever I feel 'down' about being unable to 'fit in', I certainly don't allow it to let me 'lose hope'! I have travelled across cities in foreign lands to places one would not normally go. A good excuse to get out and about, and explore new places!
If any of you come to Oz anytime soon and miss chocolate-covered ice cream be sure to grab a Streets Magnum Sandwich bar for yourselves from a local store anywhere around the country. They're a real soy free treat: http://www.streets.com.au/products/magnum/magnum-s
The Magnum Sandwich Bars are imported from sweden. The other Australian-Made magnums all contain soy :(
I know how hard it is to find things that are soy-free! I avoid it whenever possible because of how it makes me feel. There is a longer, drawn out explaination to all of this, but I'll shorten it to this: Because I know how hard it is to live soy-free and find foods that are allergy friendly, I have started to compile a blog of recipes that are in some way allergy friendly (especially soy-free ones). It is called http://YourNotSoProfessionalPersonalChef.blogspot. . I hope that it can be of assistance to some of you and that you will be able to help me by contributing some recipes of your own. :) Thank you.
Thank you so very much for your great information. I recently was diagnosed with a soy allergy. My allergic reactions consisted of arthritis, intestinal distress and hives. I no longer have any of those problems. I have a completely clean bill of health!! I am a brand new, healthy person.
Since soy is absolutely everywhere ( it is impossible to eat out) I wonder how many people take medications for arthritis and other afflictions and they are actually suffering from a soy allergy?
I have learned how to make interesting foods. I actually use plantains as a bread substitute!
Good luck everyone!
I just came across this original posting today, and want to say thank you for the wealth of information and inspiration shared here.
I was officially diagnosed with a soy allergy this past summer, but have suffered for years with bloating, stomach pain, sinus infections, weakness, malaise, and occasional diarrhea. Never thought it was soy, really thought it was wheat. After an elimination diet showed it to be only soy, I thought this couldn't be too bad. Boy, was I wrong!!
My Iphone has become my new best friend (or enemy!), as I will sit in the parking lot and check the menu and/or ingredients before I enter a restaurant. Here in NJ, all fast food is out. My latest discovery was Wendy's (which I used to eat at twice a month). Not only is soy an ingredient in most items, it is also used to cook in. Dunkin' Donuts has soy in all baked items. The only "quick meal" place that I can navigate through is Panera's. Most salads and soups are fine, provided dressings and croutons are left off. Some of the breads are soy-free, too, so sandwiches are okay without the mayo or dressing. Their website is allergy-friendly, and lists all ingredients for all their items.
I've been on a healthy diet now for 3-4 years - lots of fruits and veggies, organic meat 2x/week, fresh fish, etc. But with 3 kids and busy days, it's really discouraging that there aren't any places where I can stop for a quick snack or meal.
Whole Foods is the best food market for non-soy choices around here. Their store brand (365 degrees) is not as expensive as other organic choices, and they make a soy-free mayo. They even post allergy alerts on their food samples. Unfortunately, the closest store is still 40 minutes away, and I find myself trying to fill in the gaps at my local ShopRite. No mass-produced breads or cookies here are soy-free, and many cereals and soups are also off limits (forget about the salad dressing!). The only brand of bread they carry that is safe for me is Rudy's Organic, and surprisingly some of their store baked loaves are safe, too. Brianna's is the only salad dressing I can find that does not use soy oil at all. Needless to say, my trips here have gotten much shorter!
I also recently discovered that of the 3 movie theaters by me, the popcorn is all made with sunflower oil, BUT the topping is 99% soy oil!
With the holidays I have rediscovered my love for baking as I finally can eat something and know for sure it's safe!
Hang in there everyone - we are surely not alone in this:-)
Due to my concerns and research on soy, I recently asked son's pediatrition about the protient shakes my husband wanted our son to drink. He's on ADHD meds and lost weight which concerned us. I didn't prompt her or tell her what I had read about soy or that I had soy allergies.....She immediately said NO! I don't recommend soy for children, especially boys. If I understood her correctly it affects them negatively (growth and developtment) and I think it had to do with hormones.???
It was two year ago when I was told I had food allergies, soy and chocolate. This has been a mixed blessing. I now cook from scratch, read labels obsessively....and I think most my family think I'm nuts! Don't care though, they just need a couple of evenings spent in the ER....
I find that the Soy Oil is worse than anything. I feel like I can't breath and begin to throw up bubbles?? Stopped up nose and just this aweful feeling of anxiety. Nothing would possess me to volunteer for this feeling.
But the good side of all this? I learned to cook, with real butter and I do use Lard. Believe it or not, I have lost 30 pounds and my cholesterol has dropped 60 points in the last two years. I eat mostly protein...which is not would I would normally do, but finding baked goods is not possible here in the US unless I have time to make it.
I also don't have the severe fatigue that no amount of thyroid medicine could cure. No more "stomach bugs"...
The change has just been amazing. I'm so thankful a nurse practitioner finally asked me "Do you think you could have food allergies?"
I rarely eat out. But when I do, I make sure its a steak house where I can get a plain baked potato no butter (cause people these days have NO idea what real butter would look like) plain salad and a fruit cup.
When I'm traveling, I eat simple foods with three or less ingredients.....that I have tried before...like nuts with no oil or plain potato chips...there are only a couple of brands I feel safe eating.
I don't stop going out with friends and family, I just eat before I go, carry foods with me on occation and have a cocktail while they eat.
Travel doesn't concern me now. They have grocery stores everywhere!!! It's all good. Just think...not that long ago, folks didn't have a fast food place every exit and they had to plan what and where they would eat while on an extended trip. I tell myself this and go!!
I truly believe that similar to MSG 20 years ago....more people will begin having problems with soy and we will see this saturation of soy in our food source "rewind". But until then, it's a great opportunity to learn some great eating habits and get back to eating healthy.
Happy eating!
LIFESAVER. THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!!!!! CAN'T SAY IT ENOUGH.
I am severely allergic to soy, and have been for more than 10 years. We have favorite restaurants that we have frequented over the years, and sadly had become complacent until recently. Bubba Gumps had several dishes that I could enjoy, but recently changed something. A few bites, and I knew I was in trouble. So the message here is... Always ask about the ingredients (duh for me!).
Like most people with allergies, I do not need to 'eat' soy to react. Quite often, like today, someone walking down the hallway with a steaming dish of soy flavored or MSG doused food makes my lips tingle followed by a swollen tongue - all followed up by two days of muscle aches and diarrhea. Object lesson here is... If you can't figure out what made you react when eating, look at your environment too. Some fast food's smoke stack just might be belching out soy smoke.
Wow, food for thought everyone! Since my soy allergy diagnosis in August, I have learned a lot.
Please check EGGS!! Many chickens are fed soy protein. I had a full blown soy reaction to those eggs. I found an organic farmer who lets his chickens eat natural chicken food- insects, seeds etc.
Also make sure flour is made in a dedicated soy free factory.
Take care everyone!
Out of interest, does anyone here react to chocolate bars that 'may contain *traces* of soy lecithin' (e.g. lindt 70%, 85%, 99%, etc.). I'd be interested in knowing. I find I react to soy oil and soy lecithin but can tolerate lindt dark chocolate bars mentioned above.
Also I came across this article http://www.celiac.com/articles/21961/1/Soy-as-a-Fo - not happy about this author's way of promoting soy products at all and was so pleased to see your response there Rachelle. Perhaps some of the above commenters should visit the link share their perspectives to show up this *biased* and *innaccurate* article written by Paul Smith. I too realise the seriousness as I have been hospitalised over just a few chocolate shavings on my dessert! Thanks for allowing me to comment!
No chocolate, as almost all chocolates have soy lecithin to some degree. Very bad hives and tongue swelling. Reuben, so sorry that you have been to the hospital.
As for the article, anaphylaxis is an absolute reaction for some of us who are allergic to soy.
Perhaps celiac sufferers should stay away from soy products as soy can irritate the lining of the small intestine.
Stay safe!
I can well believe what you say michelle - it is a real worry... cannot believe no chocolate manufacturer on the market has even considered sunflower lecithin or canola lecithin or something that doesn't cause so much harm! From my experience, at least 9 out of 10 people who I have come across (who are allergic to soy) do not tolerate soy lecithin or soy oil. Even more than that avoid it as a precaution.
Soy proteins can be similar to glutens and seems that more and more celiacs are having trouble with it. I've always bought organic free-range grass-fed chickens so haven't had any issues with chicken.
Soy is everywhere and in everything. From fabric to newspaper ink, paint, makeup, vitamins and threads. I'm sure there's more, but these are the ones that I've been able to identify and avoid. Many organic prepared foods also have some kind of soy.
I found a soy free chocolate at a local health food store.
Since I haven't had chocolate in a very long time, it was very nice to have. The company's name is Enjoy Life Foods. It has a line of chocolates with no soy!
Take care.
I found a soy free soy sauce alternative on this really awesome soy allergy group facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Soy-Allergy-Network-
I was told that flax seed contains soy or a derivative- does it? i have both wheat & soy allergies and thought I finally found a substitute- thank YOU for any info
Interesting article, Great hub.
OMG! i have had this problem for @ least ten years and a lot of hospital visits later ive learned alot!! but just knowing im not alone makes me feel alot better.Yes! straight organic foods lots of homecooking.Really hope for a soyfree restraunts. Also i learned that either"cantalope or honeydue"mimmics soy im sorry its been about a year since i had a reaction soo i stay away from both of them,after i had the reaction i also remember reading about it.I just cant remember which it was, thanks sooo much the info.
Informative article.
I just found out today that I am highly allergic to soy. I deliver newspapers for a living and the ink is soy based. Can I absorb that through my skin? Should I start wearing gloves?
I am finding that soy based ink is bothering me more and more, not only the touch of a newspaper or magazine, but the odor as well, I develop a rash, cough and my throat swells. Yes, Amy Jo wearing gloves is a very good idea.
Last year I was diagnosed with this soy allergy and I have learned so much since then. I will not eat anything that doesn't say "soy- free". I cook my own meals and eat organic. I am learning how to make my own lotions and conditioners since most brands are loaded with soybean.
I really have a super diet and enjoy eating very good foods, leaving processed foods behind. I have also lost weight and feel very well.
I appreciate this hub so very much, thank you! take care everyone
Oh god, thank you for this article. It's just good to see other people out there who share my frustration with this. I don't think most people understand how much a soy allergy can impact one's life, especially when it's such a widely used ingredient and the labeling requirements are so lacking.
I've always had a mild-to-moderate reaction to soy, but it's increased in severity over the past few years, to the point where I've realized that packaged foods just aren't an option anymore. The ingredients lists only help so much.
Why do you list Spectrum as as soy free mayonnaise when the 1st ingred. is soy oil!
Wow, i just got home from the allergist and my 2 year old daughter tested positive for soy bean allergy. As soon as I got home I started looking into it. Your list is amazing and im going to write it down and keep it with me constantly. All of the comments are so helpful. I just have a few questions because im so new to this and I just want whats best for my baby. Can anyone tell me how I can know how severe the allergy is or is it trial and error? Whats is the best way to combat a soy allergy reaction in a toddler? Is it safe to have in the house at all or should I be ransacking the kitchen? And lastly I think she might have the same allergy to other kinds of beans but they say theres no way to test that so young, does anyone else have any reactions to cream cheese or fava beans? I'd really appreciate any answers you could give because this seems like a very daunting task and future for my little girl and I want to do whats right. Thanks
Wow, it's been a long time since I've commented here. Thank you to everyone for your thoughtful responses. I wanted to let everyone know that if you live on the East Coast of the US or Canada you should take a trip to Montreal some time.
There's a fantastic restaurant called Zero8 that caters to people with allergies. Their kitchen and entire menu is free of the top eight allergens as listed by Health Canada.
That means delectable soy-free dishes!! Check out their website and please read the disclaimer – regulations differ between Canada and the US on which allergens are top eight!
I was diagnosed with a soy allergy 4 months ago after having an anaphylactic reaction to soy milk.
I appreciate the thorough list of foods you posted. Living with a severe allergy is very tough and really impacts your life immediately. I was shocked that soy was in every packaged food I looked at in my kitchen cupboards the day I came home from the hospital after my anaphylactic reaction. I was too scared to eat anything that day so I had bananas.
Thankfully, posts like yours exist and slowly I am getting more confident about living with this allergy.
I would really be interested to know what restaurants you can recommend to be allergy-friendly in Vancouver, BC. You mentioned you had many favorites in your original article.
Thanks!
I have a thyroid condition and soy has become like a poision to me, I am in Australia and it seems to me everthing is laced in the stuff, this whole SOY thing is a nightmare....you can't buy a biscuit,cracker or anything off the supermarket shelf with out it containing soy...I have recently finished a course of antibiotics fir a UTI and decided to take a probiotic to help put the good bacteria back..or so I thought ..then I began to feel very ill...contacted the probiotic company to see if soy was used in the ingredient, and to my horror it is....(I was amazed) it did not mention this on the bottle....other probiotics I have used do not contain it...God knows why they are using it...when is someone going to do something about banning soy, I really don't think the powers that be know just how many people have this allergy.. I think if a survey was done it would be massive.......there are more people now with thyroid disease than ever before and I believe it's had an impact on this gland in our bodies..yet soy is produced and hidden, laced and forced on use in all directions... thank goodness for this site, it helps us to not feel alone in this plight... Sue
Last summer I visited central Illinois where the mighty soybean grows. Millions and millions of acres of soybean. The individual plants looked like SUPER plants. They look very strong and fuzzy and unnaturally green. I feel the GMO really has made the soybean into the plant so many of us cannot tolerate. These plants are modified to fight off pests, herbicides and pesticides. The soybean is turning into a science fiction monster.
I think that we must work on food labeling so that we can be safe.
So many people are suffering from the intake of soybean. Arthritis, hives, digestive issues and many other ills can be erased if soybean is taken out of the diet.
I think I had a soy sllergy attack . stomach cramps and pain. after eating soy burger. I had taken prilosec and famotidine earlier in the day. I just took simethicone in a antacid liquid. tums and rolaids. How do I get rid of the cramps. thank you god bless jon
thank you so much....my son was diagnosed 5 years ago and we got very little help and had to struggle thru blind at first .
the big issue we have is finding white bread he can eat ..we are in the uk any help is grately apreciated:)
Just wanted to say thanks for your article. Interestingly enough I thought I was doing pretty good avoiding soy, but couldn't figure out why I had a stomach ache. I had two non-organic apples earlier that I'm betting were coated with soy. I've also had a problem with the natural fruit snacks, but never could figure out why.
Bob Ewing Level 4 Commenter 3 years ago
solid information, well done.