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Clinical Reference Systems: Pediatric Advisor 10.0
Corn Allergy Diet
Avoid All Sources of Corn
A corn allergy is extremely rare. Diets without corn are
difficult to plan because corn and corn products are used in
many food products, mostly in the form of sweeteners or
cornstarch. If you have a corn allergy, you must avoid all
sources of corn protein.
If your child cannot eat corn, he or she won't be able to
eat many baked goods, beverages, candy, canned fruits,
cereals, cookies, jams, jellies, lunch meats, snack foods, and
syrups.
Like other grain oils, corn oil is considered safe for a
person with an allergy.
You must read labels carefully. Many processed foods,
such as ice cream, catsup, and even instant coffee contain
hidden corn flour.
Read Food Labels
Knowing how to read a food label will help you avoid
problems caused by corn in foods.
Terms that mean the product does contain corn protein:
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baking powder corn sweetener hominy
corn corn syrup solids maize
corn alcohol cornmeal cornstarch
corn flour grits
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Terms that may mean the product contains corn protein:
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food starch vegetable gum
modified food starch vegetable starch
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Use Corn Substitutes
If your child can't have corn, you can use the following
items as sweeteners, thickeners, and leavening agents:
- sweeteners: aspartame, fruit juices, honey, beet or cane
sugar, and maple syrup.
- thickeners: rice starch, potato starch, tapioca, and
wheat starch.
- leavening agents: soda and cream of tartar.
Provide Missing Nutrients
Because this diet is very restrictive, have a dietitian check
your child's diet from time to time. Also, give your child a
daily vitamin pill.
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