Ask the Allergist

Is It Safe for Me to Eat Foods Fried in the Same Oil As My Allergens?

AAFA's Ask the Allergist Service 11/7/229:25 AM

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Question

I’m allergic to fish and seafood. Many restaurants I go to fry their foods in the same oil as their fish and seafood. Will I have an allergic reaction to fries and other foods that have been fried in the same oil as fish and seafood?

Answer

Patients with allergies to fish and shellfish can have an allergic reaction after eating foods cooked in the same oil used to cook fish or shellfish. This is an example of cross-contact and includes foods like French fries.

The restaurant may have a designated or separate fryer with different oil to avoid cross-contact. Make sure to tell the restaurant staff and chef about your food allergies. This will help them take precautions to prevent food allergen cross-contact.

Categories

Fish Allergy, Food Allergy, Shellfish Allergy

Answered by

John M. James, MD, is a board-certified allergist. He is also President of Food Allergy Consulting and Education Services, LLC. He has worked as a medical specialist in the field of allergy, asthma, and immunology for over 30 years. Dr. James received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Arkansas and his Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Tennessee. He is board certified by the American Board of Allergy and Immunology.

Reviewed and Answered

October 24, 2022

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