Double-blind placebo-controlled food allergy tests

Approximately 2 to 3% of the population suffers from a food allergy, yet commonly used detection methods—such as skin prick tests and blood analyses—are often insufficient. Double-blind placebo-controlled food challenge tests (DBPCFCs) are considered the gold standard for diagnosing food allergies, but they are rarely used in practice due to the lack of standardised testing protocols. This project builds on a previous project that took a first step toward standardisation by developing validated recipes for test foods used in DBPCFCs. In this follow-up, we aim to develop standardised protocols for the execution of DBPCFCs and assess the practical feasibility of these protocols through clinical testing with real patients suspected of having a food allergy.

Close-up of a Child about to Grab the Food from the Plate with His Fingers
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PWO

Research content

Within the PWO project 'Universal matrix for double-blind food allergy test', a first step toward standardisation was taken through the development of a universal matrix—a test food in which multiple allergens can be masked. In this follow-up trajectory, the project team will apply the developed matrix within a broad, multidisciplinary framework for the practical execution of DBPCFCs (Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Food Challenges). For each step of the DBPCFC procedure, standardised protocols will be developed.
The feasibility of these protocols will then be tested in clinical trials involving patients with suspected food allergies.

Output

The ultimate goal of this project is to establish a standardised protocol for double-blind placebo-controlled food challenge tests (DBPCFCs), including the use of the developed test foods. This protocol will be validated by the end users—patients and healthcare professionals. Once validated, the methodology will be disseminated to relevant testing centres and educational programmes, setting the stage for broader implementation of the gold standard in clinical practice.

Meet the researchers

Our partners

  • Mathias De Mesmaeker, attaché A2 genetically modified organisms (GMOs) FPS Public Health, BLT lecturer and former food allergens project leader
  • Dr. Marc De Loose, scientific director, ILVO
  • Prof. Dr. Hilde Lapeere, physician-specialist allergology and atopic dermatitis, UZ Gent
  • Marleen Genetello, dietician gastroenterology, UZ Gent
  • Marieken Callebaut, member core team Allergiediettisten.com
  • Gunther Van Dyck, president Allergienet vzw
  • Brecht Daelman, owner Wheatless&More
  • Michèle Daelemans, allergy patient, dietician and former intern at the allergen project

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