Fruit and vegetablesf218

Bell pepper allergy

Bell pepper allergy is uncommon but can cause symptoms from both fresh peppers and paprika powder. The allergy can be linked to pollen allergy and to latex.

Allergen
Bell pepper Capsicum annuum
Allergen code
f218
Included in
1 test
Contents
  1. What is bell pepper allergy?
  2. Symptoms
  3. Where bell pepper is found
  4. Cross-reactivity
  5. How to get tested
  6. Frequently asked questions

What is bell pepper allergy?

Bell pepper belongs to the nightshade family, like tomato, potato and aubergine. In bell pepper allergy, the immune system reacts to proteins in the fruit. The allergy is uncommon and is often linked to other allergies, for example to pollen from birch and mugwort or to latex.

Symptoms

  • Itching and tingling in the mouth and throat
  • Swelling of the lips and tongue
  • Hives and stomach problems
  • Less often, breathing difficulties

Where bell pepper is found

Bell pepper is eaten as a fresh vegetable and used as a spice, for example in paprika powder, cayenne pepper and chilli, spice mixes, sausages, crisps, sauces and ready meals. The colouring paprika extract (E 160c) also comes from peppers.

Cross-reactivity

Bell pepper can cross-react with other spices and with mugwort pollen, in what is known as the mugwort–spice syndrome. It is also one of the foods that can cause reactions in people with latex allergy.

How to get tested

Bell pepper (allergen code f218) is included in our Vegetable allergy test, together with carrot and celery. The test shows whether you have IgE antibodies to bell pepper.

Frequently asked questions

Is bell pepper allergy the same as not tolerating spicy food?

No. The burning sensation from chilli comes from capsaicin, which irritates the nerves and does not cause an allergic reaction. An allergy instead causes itching, swelling or a rash.

Can I react to crisps and sausages?

Yes, if they are seasoned with paprika. Bell pepper is not one of the allergens that must always be declared, so it may appear simply as "spices" on the ingredients list. Ask the manufacturer if you are unsure.

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 bell pepper 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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