Can You Eat Other Poultry If Allergic to Duck Meat?

If you are allergic to duck, can you eat other poultry?

Hello, Doctor: I have a severe allergy to duck meat, which causes a dense rash on my chest (not itchy or painful) that takes about 1 to 2 weeks to resolve on its own.
If I am allergic to duck meat, can I eat similar poultry like goose? (Currently, I do not have an allergy to chicken.) Thank you.

Qi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/10/11

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

Not necessarily, as each person's constitution is different.

Reply Date: 2019/10/11

More Info

When it comes to food allergies, particularly in the case of poultry, the situation can be quite complex. If you are allergic to duck meat, it does not automatically mean that you will be allergic to all other types of poultry, such as chicken or goose. However, there are some important considerations to keep in mind.

Firstly, food allergies are highly individual. Each person's immune system reacts differently to various proteins found in foods. Duck and goose are both waterfowl and share similar protein structures, which means that there is a possibility of cross-reactivity. Cross-reactivity occurs when the immune system recognizes similar proteins in different foods and reacts to them in a similar way. Therefore, while you may not have had a reaction to chicken, it is possible that you could have a reaction to goose or other similar birds.

In your case, since you have a known allergy to duck meat, it is advisable to exercise caution when trying other poultry, especially goose. It would be prudent to consult with an allergist or a healthcare professional who can perform specific allergy tests to determine if you have any sensitivities to other types of poultry. They may conduct skin prick tests or blood tests to check for specific IgE antibodies to the proteins found in goose and other birds.

Additionally, it is important to consider the symptoms you experienced with duck meat. The fact that you developed a rash that lasted for 1 to 2 weeks indicates a significant allergic response. This could suggest that your immune system is quite sensitive to certain proteins found in duck meat, which raises the concern that similar proteins in goose could provoke a similar or even more severe reaction.

If you decide to try goose or any other poultry, it is advisable to do so in a controlled environment where you can monitor your body's reaction closely. Start with a very small amount and wait to see if any symptoms develop. If you experience any signs of an allergic reaction, such as hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, or gastrointestinal distress, seek medical attention immediately.

In summary, while you may not be allergic to all poultry, there is a risk of cross-reactivity between duck and other similar birds like goose. Consulting with an allergist is the best course of action to determine your specific allergies and to receive personalized advice. Until you have more information, it is wise to avoid consuming goose and other similar poultry to prevent any potential allergic reactions. Always prioritize your health and safety when it comes to food allergies.

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