Mustard Allergy

Mustard originally came from China and has by now been established as the most popular condiment in Central Europe. Mustard contains mustard seed oil, glycosides and more than 20% protein. These protein compounds can cause allergic reactions. The allergenic potential of mustard is quite high: a few milligrams suffice to cause an allergic reaction. The allergens causing pathological reactions to mustard are very heat-resistant and hard to degrade enzymatically.

The prevalence of mustard allergies is not so well known, but France, Spain and India are countries which seem to be the most affected, most likely due to the high levels of mustard consumption and production.

You can find information on diagnosis of food allergies and intolerances here.

DELICARDO Foodcards:

We highly recommend the use of DELICARDO Foodcards for mustard allergy sufferers. When eating dishes prepared by someone else it is important that allergies and intolerances are clearly communicated to the cook and/or service personnel.

Standard DELICARDO Foodcards can be found here

To create a personalised DELICARDO Foodcard click here

Further Information:

Food Standards Agency
http://www.eatwell.gov.uk/healthissues/foodintolerance/foodintolerancetypes/mustardallergy/

EFSA (European Food Standards Authority)
http://www.efsa.europa.eu/en/efsajournal/pub/157.htm

Food-Info.net
http://www.food-info.net/uk/intol/mustard.htm