After a long day at work, you may enjoy a glass or pair it with your favourite meal. However, you might be surprised to discover the additional ingredients in your wine. And how they can affect your health. Depending on your food allergies and dietary restrictions, you may need to switch wines.
1. Lipid Transfer Proteins
Grapes, yeasts, and bacteria produce the lipid transfer proteins in wine. These proteins can also be found in beer and liquors. They have been shown to cause allergic reactions such as nasal congestion, flushing, diarrhea and vomiting.
It is more common for red wine to contain lipid transfer proteins that can cause severe allergic reactions than white wines. Red wine is fermented using protein-rich grape skins, while white wine does not. A glass of wine can cause nausea and headaches.
2. Egg whites
Winemaking is made up of egg whites that contain a globular protein. Albumen, also known as protein, clarifies red wine during barrel aging. Albumen is the oldest method of fining in winemaking. Albumin is a known allergen in wine.
People allergic to eggs may experience hives, nasal congestion, skin inflammation, cramps, and skin irritation. Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can cause a rapid pulse, constrictive airways, shock, and even death. An allergic reaction to eggs can lead to an increase in the release of histamines and other chemicals that can cause discomfort or damage.
3. Chitosan
The crab, shrimp, and other crustaceans exoskeletons make up this wine ingredient. Chitosan, a sucrose polymer, is often used in white wine finishing agents. Wine lovers who are allergic or sensitive to shellfish can find Chitosan problematic.
If you feel tingling in the mouth, dizziness or itching, there is a high chance your wine contains Chitosan. If anaphylaxis occurs, you may need emergency medical attention. If you have a shellfish allergy, it is important to be aware of the ingredients in your wine.
4. Gelatin
Gelatin is an animal protein used in red wines to reduce extra astringency or tannins. Gelatin allergies can cause hives, swelling, difficulty breathing, and itching. A flu shot contains gelatin as a stabilizer. If you have ever experienced an allergic reaction to flu shots, you likely have a gelatin allergy.
5. Isinglass
Isinglass, a protein made of collagen and obtained from fish swim bladders, is known as “Isinglass”. This protein is only available from fish, especially the Beluga sturgeon. Therefore, it is not suitable for vegetarians or vegans who are strict about avoiding animal products. Isinglass is used as a soft finishing agent in wine to preserve the flavours of whites and blushes.
6. Casein
This ingredient is used to clarify white wines. If you have ever had an allergic reaction to milk or cheese products, casein can be a type of milk phosphoprotein. Itchy eyes, rash, itchy skin, nasal congestion, and swelling are all possible reactions to this wine allergen.
7. Sulphites
Sulphites are a natural component of winemaking and are used to preserve it. Sulphites can also be found in beer, dried fruits, and many other foods.
Dizziness, difficulty swallowing, nausea, vomiting, and reduced blood pressure are possible reactions to sulphites. There is a chance that you may develop anaphylactic shock if you have seasonal allergies and also find yourself allergic to sulphites. People living with Asthma are at greater risk of allergic reactions to wine sulphites. You should be aware that you may have an allergy to sulphites.
8. Gluten
Gluten is most commonly found in hops, barley, and yeast beer. However, it can occasionally also be found in wine. Oak barrels are often sealed with a mixture of water and flour.
