From the Guidelines
If you have oral allergy syndrome (OAS) to strawberries that causes throat itching, it is recommended that you avoid consuming dried strawberries in Pop-Tarts. Even though dried fruits sometimes have reduced allergenicity compared to fresh fruits, the allergenic proteins that trigger OAS can still be present in dried strawberries, as processing methods like drying don't reliably destroy all allergens 1. OAS occurs because certain proteins in fruits like strawberries are similar to pollen proteins that trigger allergic reactions. If fresh strawberries cause throat itching for you, the dried strawberries in Pop-Tarts may cause similar symptoms.
Key Considerations
- The guidelines for the diagnosis and management of food allergy in the United States recommend that patients with a history of severe allergic reactions should be cautious when introducing new foods, including those with potential allergens like strawberries 1.
- Oral food challenges, which are considered the gold standard for diagnosing food allergies, should be conducted under medical supervision to minimize the risk of severe reactions 1.
- If you still want to try dried strawberries in Pop-Tarts, consider having an antihistamine like Benadryl (diphenhydramine) available and only trying a small amount initially while someone else is present.
Important Precautions
- It is essential to consult with an allergist before attempting to eat foods containing ingredients you're allergic to, as reactions can sometimes be more severe than expected.
- Be aware of the potential for cross-reactivity, where an antibody reacts not only with the original allergen but also with a similar allergen, which may trigger an adverse reaction similar to that triggered by the original food allergen 1.
From the Research
Oral Allergy Syndrome and Strawberry Consumption
- Oral allergy syndrome (OAS) is a condition characterized by mild transient oropharyngeal symptoms, including throat itching, in response to certain foods such as strawberries 2.
- The symptoms of OAS are usually limited to the oral cavity, but can include systemic reactions, including anaphylaxis 3.
Dried Strawberries in Pop-Tarts
- There is no direct evidence to suggest that consuming dried strawberries in Pop-Tarts would not cause a reaction in individuals with OAS to strawberries 2, 4, 5, 6, 3.
- However, it is known that cooking or processing foods can denature the allergenic proteins, potentially reducing the risk of a reaction 5.
- Nevertheless, individuals with OAS should be cautious when consuming foods that contain their allergenic trigger, even in processed forms, as the risk of a reaction cannot be entirely ruled out 2, 3.
Precautions and Considerations
- Individuals with OAS to strawberries should consult their healthcare provider or an allergist for personalized advice on managing their condition and avoiding trigger foods 2, 5, 3.
- It is essential to note that OAS can be associated with other plant food allergens, and changes in pollen and pollution levels, cofactors, and sensitization to other plant food allergens may also be involved 2.