Are Spirulina, Chlorella, or Seaweed Products Safe for Someone with a Shellfish Allergy?
Spirulina and chlorella are types of algae. In general, they are safe for someone with a shellfish allergy. They can also eat products containing seaweed. This is because the specific allergens in shellfish do not cross-react with proteins in algae or seaweed. Algae is not shellfish. Cross-reactivity is when proteins in one substance are like the proteins in another. Because of this, the immune system sees them as the same.
There are some important things to consider here:
- There have been reports of severe allergic reactions to spirulina confirmed by allergy skin testing.
- Seaweed is not typically associated with shellfish allergens. But it can contain other allergens and contaminants (such as heavy metals and toxins). This can cause adverse (bad) health effects.
If you have severe allergies, use caution. Speak to an allergist before adding these products into your diet. They may recommend allergy testing to rule out allergic responses.
John M. James, MD, is a board-certified allergist. He is also President of Food Allergy Consulting and Education Services, LLC. He has worked as a medical specialist in the field of allergy, asthma, and immunology for over 30 years. Dr. James received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Arkansas and his Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Tennessee. He is board certified by the American Board of Allergy and Immunology.
Comments (0)