What is a common allergen found in many foods?

Soy is a common allergen that is included in the list of the top eight allergens recognized by many health and regulatory organizations. These allergens are significant because they can cause severe allergic reactions in susceptible individuals. Soy is derived from soybeans and is widely used in various food products, including sauces, snacks, and meat substitutes.

The presence of soy in these products makes it crucial for food handlers and manufacturers to clearly label their ingredients to help prevent allergic reactions. In contrast, rice, pork, and potatoes are less commonly associated with allergies. While it is possible for individuals to have allergies to any food, rice, pork, and potatoes do not have the same level of prevalence or recognition as soy does in the context of food allergies. Thus, the significance of soy as an allergen is widely acknowledged, making it the correct choice in this scenario.