Hypersensitivity and reactions to foreign substances (allergens). The consumption of tyramine- and histamine-rich foods can be the cause of headaches (migraines). Caution is advised with genuine sulphite allergy sufferers. For them, even minimal amounts of sulphur can trigger "sulphite asthma". They should avoid wine and other alcoholic drinks containing sulphur. The symptoms can be similar to asthma and include itching, hives, runny nose and a drop in blood pressure. Around 10% of asthmatics are "sulphite allergy sufferers".

Wine can also contain allergenic substances. These are mainly protein compounds (when used in fine wines), histamine, sorbitol and tyramine (especially in red wines with BSA), sulphur (contained in almost every wine) and also the alcohol (ethanol) itself. However, there are different limits in the mg/l range for each substance. A list of all substances with limit values can be found under ADI (Acceptable Daily Intake).
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