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More than half of Americans either have, live with someone, or know someone with a food allergy, an intolerance, or a sensitivity, according to a recent online survey.

Nuts were the most frequently reported allergy, while dairy was the most frequently reported trigger for sensitivity or intolerance, according to the survey of more than 1000 adults run by the International Food Information Council (IFIC). Fruits and vegetables, seafood and shellfish, grains, eggs, and spicy foods were also common allergens, the group found.

“Food allergies and intolerances are no longer niche health concerns — they affect a significant portion of the population,” said Wendy Reinhardt Kapsak, MS, RDN, president and CEO of the IFIC, in a press release. IFIC is a nonprofit supported by the food, beverage, and agricultural industries.

Recent research suggested food allergies are increasing in prevalence, and food intolerance is widespread. The survey found 16% of respondents said they or someone in their household has received medical care because of a reaction to a food or beverage. Nuts were the most commonly reported trigger (36%), followed by seafood or shellfish (16%) and fruits or vegetables (13%).

The majority (70%) of respondents who either have or know someone with an allergy, sensitivity, or intolerance said they were aware of allergy labeling information, which requires disclosure of the nine major food allergens — milk, eggs, fish, crustacean shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, soybeans, and sesame — in plain language either on the ingredient list or in a “contains statement.” Of those who use the labeling to guide decisions, 34% said they have a high understanding of the warnings, and 17% said they had little to no understanding of the cautions.

“Labeling is a lifeline for those managing food allergies and intolerances, but it only works if it is clear, accurate, and widely understood,” said Kris Sollid, RD, senior director of Research and Consumer Insights at IFIC, in a press release.

Roughly 1 in 10 respondents said they do not trust allergy labeling information, and 16% said they always use the warnings when making food choices.

“If consumers do not trust the information they are reading to make informed decisions, even the most accurate labels will not serve their purpose,” Kapsak said.

Brittany Vargas is a journalist covering medicine, mental health, and wellness.