It's unlikely. In the absence of other food allergy symptoms (hives, redness and swelling, difficulty breathing, gastrointestinal distress or symptoms of anaphylactic shock), a clear runny nose after eating is usually a sign of gustatory rhinitis. This is a form of vasomotor rhinitis or nonallergic rhinitis, which is an irritation of the inner nose. Spicy foods and alcoholic beverages are the two most common causes. (Children may sometimes have food allergies whose primary symptom is runny nose, but this is considered rare in adults.)
Avoiding trigger foods is an effective way to treat gustatory rhinitis. If your symptoms are severe or if they interfere with your quality of life, talk with your doctor. She may recommend medication. Saline sprays, inhaled antihistamines, inhaled corticosteroids or Atrovent (Ipratropium) are among the therapies that may be useful in treating gustatory rhinitis.
Source:
Wallace, Dana, et al. "The Diagnosis and Management of Rhinitis: An Updated Practice Parameter." Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology. Aug. 2008. 122(2 Suppl.), S1-S84 (note: subscription required.) 27 Dec. 2008.
