Gelatin is a protein substance derived from animals used in food, cosmetics, and medical supplies. This protein is formed when an animal’s skin or connective tissue is boiled. This process produces a gel-forming property that provides foods such as marshmallow and jelly with consistency. It is also used to manufacture pill capsules, inhibitors to stop bleeding, and vaccines. Thus, this allergy can be troublesome as it is often concealed in medical supplies. A gelatin allergy is a common cause of allergic reactions to vaccinations that use pig gelatin as a stabilizer, such as flu shots.
Common foods containing gelatin include:
- Instant puddings such as Jell-O
- Marshmallows
- Soft drinks
- Cereals
- Ice cream
- Candy
- Yogurt
- Cheesecake
Vaccines that contain gelatin:
- Varicella
- Influenza
- Diphtheria
- Measles
- Tetanus
- MMR (mumps and rubella)
- Pertussis (DPT)
Like every allergy, a gelatin allergy causes a reaction in the immune system. When contact is made with the allergen, the body views it as toxic and becomes sensitized, producing IgE antibodies against these contaminants. These antibodies trigger the release of histamines, which will cause the symptoms of an allergic reaction.
Allergy symptoms vary from one individual to the next ranging from mild to severe reactions. Some common symptoms can include one or more of the following:
- Vomiting
- Cramping
- Diarrhea
- Hives
- Skin inflammation
- Coughing
- Tingly or itchy mouth
- Swelling of the lips, tongue, face, or throat
- Dizziness
- Difficulty breathing
- Asthma symptoms
Test Code(s):
602843, 35352
Preparation:
No special preparation required.
Test Results:
3-5 days. May take longer based on weather, holiday or lab delays.
