Is it ok for shellfish allergy sufferers to eat conch?
Quick Answer
No
Conch is a type of shellfish and can cause an allergic reaction in people with a shellfish allergy.
What Is It?
Conch is a common name for certain large marine snails. They are gastropod mollusks, the most commercially important of which are in the family Strombidae.
How to Tell
Signs of a shellfish allergy can include hives, itching, abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea or vomiting, dizziness, swelling of the lips, face, tongue and throat, or other parts of the body, wheezing or shortness of breath.
Why It Can Be Risky
People with shellfish allergy are at risk of a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis, which is a medical emergency.
- Anaphylaxis: This is a severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that can occur within seconds or minutes of exposure to an allergen.
- Cross-contamination: Even trace amounts of shellfish can cause a severe reaction in some people.
Safe Alternatives
For those with a shellfish allergy, alternatives to conch can include chicken, beef, or tofu.