Hypersensitivity and reactions to foreign substances (allergens). Consumption of tyramine- and histamine-rich foods can be the cause of headaches (migraines). Caution is advised for true sulphite allergy sufferers. For them, even minimal amounts of sulphur can trigger "sulphite asthma". These people should avoid wine as well as other alcoholic beverages containing sulphur. The symptoms can be similar to asthma and include itching, hives, runny nose and a drop in blood pressure. The small patient group of "sulphite allergy sufferers" is thought to include about 10% of asthmatics. Wine can also contain allergenic substances. Above all, these are protein compounds (when using such substances in fine wine), histamine, sorbitol and tyramine (especially in red wines with BSA), against sulphur (is contained in almost every wine) and also the alcohol (ethanol) itself. In this respect, however, there are different limit values 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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Egon Mark
Diplom-Sommelier, Weinakademiker und Weinberater, Volders (Österreich)