According to a new study, restaurants are not taking food allergies seriously enough.

Experts say that restaurants have become so overwhelmed by picky eaters who make a lifestyle choice, that diners who actually have life-threatening allergies are not being taken seriously.

Chief executive at Anaphylaxis Australia, Maria Said, says deaths from food allergies are rising by 10 per cent a year.

“Allergies can be life threatening,” Ms Said told Ross and John.

“It’s hard for a chef to know which diners have a true allergy.

“We’ve had more deaths to milk and sesame allergies in the last five years.

“Restaurants need to be well educated on food allergies and have procedures in place.”

Click PLAY to hear the full interview on 3AW Breakfast.