Fish and/or Shellfish

What is a fish and/or shellfish allergy?
A fish/shellfish allergy is caused by an immune reaction against the protein in fish and shellfish. A fish/shellfish allergy results when antibodies against fish/shellfish allergens are produced by the immune system. The combination of the allergen and antibody produces a series of reactions and symptoms typical to an allergic reaction. 

Allergic reactions to fish and shellfish are commonly reported in both adults and children. It is recommended that individuals, who have had an allergic reaction to one species of fish, avoid all fish and/or shellfish.

Symptoms
The most common symptoms include: nasal congestion, hives, itching, swelling, wheezing or shortness of breath, nausea, upset stomach, cramps, heart burn, diarrhea, lightheadedness, or fainting. Allergic reactions to fish and shellfish can be severe and are often a cause of anaphylaxis (life-threatening).

Treatment
Reactivity to fish and/or shellfish is an allergy that is usually life-long. 

A totally fish/shellfish-free diet is necessary if there is a known or suspected allergy to fish and or shellfish. If is essential that a totally fish and/or shellfish diet be followed indefinitely if a person has been diagnosed as anaphylactic. All products containing or components of fish and/or shellfish be avoided. 

How to read a Food Label for Fish and/or Shellfish
Fortunately, a new food labeling law now requires food manufacturers to disclose in plain language whether products contain any of the top eight food allergens. 

Different types of fish and shellfish contain similar proteins, so it may be best to avoid all fish and shellfish. Be particularly cautious in seafood restaurants, where allergens can be spread by shared cooking utensils and equipment.

The most commonly known fish to cause an allergic reaction include: cod, salmon, trout, herring, sardines, bass, orange roughy, swordfish, halibut, and tuna.

For shellfish allergies, avoid foods containing any of these ingredients:

Abalone
Clams
Cockle
Crab
Crawfish
Lobster
Mollusks
Mussels
Octopus
Oysters
Prawns
Scallops
Shrimp (crevette)
Snails (escargot)
Squid (calamari)

Shopping Tips

• Caponata, a traditional sweet-and-sour Sicilian relish, can contain anchovies.
• Caesar salad dressings and steak or Worcestershire sauce often contain anchovies.
• Surimi (imitation crabmeat) contains fish.