A food allergy is an immune response where the body mistakenly identifies a specific food as harmful, resulting in symptoms such as hives, swelling, or anaphylaxis. In contrast, a food intolerance generally involves digestive issues, such as bloating or diarrhea, and does not trigger the immune system. Common allergens include nuts, shellfish, and dairy, while intolerances may arise from lactose or gluten. Understanding the difference is crucial for effective management and can greatly impact an individual's health and quality of life.