Nuts, seeds and legumesf89

Mustard allergy

Mustard allergy is uncommon in many parts of Europe but can cause severe reactions. Mustard is hidden in sauces, dressings, spice mixes and cured meats.

Allergen
Mustard
Allergen code
f89
Key allergens
Sin a 1
Included in
1 test
Contents
  1. What is mustard allergy?
  2. Symptoms
  3. Where mustard is found
  4. Cross-reactivity
  5. How to get tested
  6. Frequently asked questions

What is mustard allergy?

Mustard is made from the seeds of mustard plants. The most important allergen, Sin a 1, is a storage protein that withstands heat. Mustard allergy is more common in France and other countries where a lot of mustard is eaten, but it also occurs elsewhere. Reactions can be severe.

Symptoms

  • Itching and swelling in the mouth and throat
  • Hives
  • Stomach problems
  • Breathing difficulties and, in rare cases, anaphylaxis

Where mustard is found

Mustard is not only found in jars and tubes. It is hidden in dressings, mayonnaise, remoulade, marinades, pickled herring, sausages and cured meats, curry powder and other spice mixes. Mustard is one of the allergens that must always be declared on the ingredients list.

Cross-reactivity

Mustard belongs to the same family as rapeseed and cabbage. It can cross-react with rapeseed and, in rare cases, with vegetables in the cabbage family. Mustard allergy has also been linked to allergy to mugwort pollen.

How to get tested

Mustard (allergen code f89) is included in our Sesame, soya and mustard allergy test. The test shows whether you have IgE antibodies to mustard.

Frequently asked questions

Can I eat cabbage if I am allergic to mustard?

Most people with mustard allergy eat cabbage without problems, but cross-reactions do occur. If you have reacted to vegetables in the cabbage family, discuss it with your doctor.

Why do I react to sausages?

Many sausages and cured meats contain mustard or mustard seed. Read the ingredients list – mustard must always be declared.

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 mustard allergy

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

Nuts, seeds and legumes

Peanut, hazelnut, sesame, soy and mustard are among the 14 allergens that must always be declared on the ingredients list. In adults with birch allergy, reactions are often due to cross-reactivity.

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