ORAL ALLERGY SYNDROME

The human immune system is not infallible.  Sometimes proteins from certain raw foods are perceived by people with hay fever to be the same as those from tree, grass, and ragweed pollen.  As a result, a person with an allergy to grass pollen may suddenly develop itchy, tingly lips and scratchy throat when eating a raw orange.  Watery eyes, runny nose, and/or sneezing can occur when simply handling the raw fruit.  Since these allergic reactions usually happen when the offending food is raw, there is a way to avoid such unpleasant allergic responses.  The proteins in raw food break down when the food is cooked.  If raw oranges cause a problem, most likely marmalade will not.   

P.S.   Allergic reactions to fresh fruits and vegetables can occur at any time of year but are usually worse during heavy pollen seasons. Source:  Allergies Sourcebook, aaaai.org                    (w.c.116)           (ALLERGYOCTCP)

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