Some food allergies are so common in Canada that manufacturers are legally required to label products that contain them. Eggs, cow’s milk, and nuts, for example, are all known to trigger physical symptoms like severe abdominal pain, a skin rash (hives), shortness of breath, and nausea. However, there are some more of the rarest food allergies that you might not have heard of, but they can be just as dangerous.
Avocados
Smashed avocado is a breakfast trend that has gained popularity in recent years, but it’s also the cause of some more unusual food allergies. Interestingly, the proteins found in avocados have a structure similar to those found in latex, so these two allergies are closely linked. Avocados also contain histamines, which are the source of some food allergies and can provoke a physical reaction.
Red meat
A sugar found in meat called alpha-galactose can occasionally trigger an autoimmune response. This can lead to an allergy to red meats like beef, lamb, and pork, causing symptoms such as congestion, diarrhea, breathlessness, and an itchy rash. If you suffer from this uncommon food allergy, you may find that you’re also unable to eat poultry, as it can sometimes be injected with beef to enhance its flavour.
Dried fruit
Sulfites, such as sulphur dioxide, are used to preserve foods, prevent browning, and prolong their colour. Despite being commonly used in baked goods, snacks, and dried fruit, they are known to trigger allergic reactions. For this reason, food manufacturers have a legal obligation to list sulphates on food labels if they are included in a product as a preservative or enhancer.
Marshmallows
A marshmallow allergy is unusual, but gelatin is the most likely culprit if you experience severe symptoms after eating this sweet treat. This protein is derived from the collagen taken from the skin, bones, and connective tissues of cows and pigs that have been processed. It’s commonly added to sweets, desserts, and even some sauces, which means many of these are not suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
Wine is one of the rarest food allergies
Yes, despite being one of the rarest food allergies, some people have the misfortune of being allergic to wine, likely due to the enzymes it contains. An alcohol allergy is also known to exacerbate other reactions to food. For example, you may find that you’re not allergic to a particular ingredient, but combining it with alcohol brings on symptoms you wouldn’t experience otherwise.
How can I determine if I have one of the rarest food allergies?
Having a food allergy is not the same as having a food intolerance, but it’s easy to confuse the two. While food intolerance symptoms are unpleasant, they are not as severe as those associated with food allergies and do not require immediate medical attention. You can find out whether you have a food intolerance by taking one of our tests that will determine whether your digestive system is sensitive to specific ingredients. If you suspect you have a food allergy, on the other hand, it’s best to speak to your family doctor, who can refer you for the necessary tests.
Contact Canada Food Intolerance to enhance your health and wellbeing
If you would like to learn more about our food intolerance tests, please visit our website or FAQs page. You can also send any questions you have to [email protected] or fill out our contact form. Please remember that while we are happy to address your concerns, our advice should never replace that of healthcare professionals, and you should consult with your doctor if you have health concerns.
