Fruit and vegetablesf84

Kiwi allergy

Kiwi allergy can be a mild cross-reaction with birch pollen, but in children kiwi can cause stronger reactions. Kiwi is also one of the fruits that can be linked to latex allergy.

Allergen
Kiwi Actinidia deliciosa
Allergen code
f84
Key allergens
Act d 1, Act d 8
Included in
1 test
Contents
  1. What is kiwi allergy?
  2. Symptoms
  3. Cross-reactivity
  4. How to get tested
  5. Frequently asked questions

What is kiwi allergy?

Kiwi contains several allergens. The most important, Act d 1 (actinidin), is an enzyme that is present in large amounts in the fruit and can cause strong reactions, especially in children. The protein Act d 8 resembles Bet v 1 in birch pollen and instead causes milder itching in the mouth in people with birch allergy.

Symptoms

  • Itching and tingling in the mouth and throat
  • Swelling of the lips and tongue
  • Hives and eczema
  • Vomiting and stomach ache
  • Breathing difficulties and, in rare cases, anaphylaxis

Kiwi can also irritate the mouth in people who are not allergic, because the fruit contains acids and tiny crystals.

Cross-reactivity

Together with banana, avocado and chestnut, kiwi is one of the foods that can cause reactions in people with latex allergy – the so-called latex–fruit syndrome. The birch-related form is linked to apple, hazelnut and other fruits.

How to get tested

Kiwi (allergen code f84) is included in our Fruit allergy test, together with apple and peach. The test shows whether you have IgE antibodies to kiwi.

Frequently asked questions

Can I have kiwi in smoothies or desserts?

Kiwi in smoothies and fresh desserts is raw and contains as much allergen as the whole fruit. Avoid kiwi in all forms if you have reacted severely.

Why does kiwi make my mouth sting?

Kiwi contains acids and an enzyme that can irritate the mucous membranes even without allergy. Allergic reactions, on the other hand, usually cause itching, swelling or a rash.

Often cross-reacts with

This text is general information and does not replace an assessment by a healthcare professional. In an emergency, call 112. If you have questions about your health, contact your doctor.

Tests for kiwi allergy

You take the sample yourself at home. The tests measure IgE antibodies in a capillary blood sample.

Fruit and vegetables

An itchy mouth from raw fruit and vegetables is usually due to cross-reactivity with pollen. Heating often destroys the sensitive proteins, but not all of them.

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