As pollen levels soared across Scotland this week, reaching a 'very high' alert in some areas, hay fever sufferers are being warned about a related food allergy known as pollen food syndrome (PFS), or oral allergy syndrome. This condition affects around two per cent of the adult population in the UK, according to Allergy UK, and is triggered by certain raw fruits, nuts, and vegetables.
What Is Pollen Food Syndrome?
PFS occurs when the immune system of hay fever sufferers mistakes the protein structure in certain plant-based foods for pollen. This cross-reactivity leads to mild allergic symptoms such as itching, swelling, and redness of the lips, mouth, tongue, ears, and throat, typically within minutes of eating the trigger food. The NHS notes that additional hay fever symptoms like a runny nose, watery eyes, and sneezing can also occur.
Common Trigger Foods
The NHS lists common raw foods that can cause PFS, including apples, strawberries, oranges, cherries, peaches, plums, nectarines, pears, melons, carrots, potatoes, celery, tomatoes, soy (soy milk), hazelnuts, almonds, and peanuts. Symptoms are more likely when these foods are consumed raw, and the risk of severe symptoms increases if large amounts are eaten quickly.
Cooking and Prevention
Importantly, PFS patients only need to avoid trigger foods when raw; cooking or heating them typically breaks down the problematic proteins, allowing safe consumption. The NHS advises steaming or microwaving as ideal cooking methods, while stir-frying may not be sufficient to prevent symptoms. Smoothies containing trigger foods should also be avoided. Symptoms can appear during food preparation, such as peeling raw vegetables, as food particles are released into the air. Wearing gloves or submerging foods in water can help reduce reactions.
Management and Advice
Most PFS symptoms start within five to ten minutes of eating and settle within an hour without medical intervention. However, sensitivities vary; some people react to only one or two foods, while others react to a wide range. Allergy UK advises that if symptoms are concerning, individuals should contact their GP for advice. Antihistamines and rinsing the mouth can help manage mild reactions.
