Food allergy in preschool children in Qingdao, China: a cross-sectional study

Food allergy (FA) is a common childhood condition, and its global prevalence has risen over the past two decades.

A cross-sectional study was conducted between April and July 2025, involving 461 preschool children in Qingdao, China. Data were collected by means of a self-administered questionnaire completed by parents or guardians.

Among the 461 participating preschool children, 60 (13.0%) were diagnosed with FA. No statistically significant differences in FA prevalence were observed across gender or age groups. Of the FA-affected children, 35 (58.3%) exhibited a single clinical manifestation, while 25 (41.7%) presented with two or more concurrent symptoms. Univariate analysis identified significant associations between FA occurrence and the following factors: annual household income, gestational age at birth (weeks), maternal FA history, child's picky eating behavior, and indoor plant cultivation. Binary logistic regression analysis further revealed that: 1. Risk factors for FA: Annual household income > ¥15,000 CNY [OR (95% CI): 2.812 (1.547-5.111)], maternal FA history [OR (95% CI): 3.143 (1.505-6.561)], and picky eating behavior [OR (95% CI): 2.558 (1.383-4.732)]. 2. Protective factors against FA: Gestational age ≥ 37 weeks [OR (95% CI): 0.049 (0.006-0.424)] and indoor plant cultivation [OR (95% CI): 0.433 (0.229-0.817)].

A high prevalence of FA was identified among preschool children in Qingdao, China. The most common allergenic foods included shrimp, mango, milk, and eggs. Cutaneous symptoms were the predominant clinical manifestations associated with FA. The risk factors for FA were multifactorial. An annual household income exceeding ¥150,000, a maternal history of FA, and picky eating behavior were identified as significant risk factors. In contrast, a gestational age of 37 weeks or more and indoor plant keeping were associated with a reduced risk of FA.