Food challenge tests are, by design, intended to provoke an allergic reaction in individuals who have a food allergy. For this reason, there is a certain degree of risk involved with the testing. Physicians work to reduce this risk by conducting the test in a controlled environment that has adequate medical facilities present. Physicians also use challenge doses that build gradually to provoke the mildest type of allergic reaction possible for each individual. Any patient who has an allergic reaction during the test will be immediately treated.

Unfortunately, some people are severely allergic to even trace amounts of an allergen. These individuals can react strongly to even the most diluted dose of an allergen taken during a food challenge. Individuals who are prone to the life-threatening reaction known as anaphylactic shock should participate in food challenge testing only if a physician determines it is absolutely necessary. Physicians recommend that highly sensitive individuals take the food challenge test while connected to an intravenous (IV) injection so that medications may be quickly administered in the event of a reaction.