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Oral Allergy Syndrome (PFS): Pollen-Food Cross-Reactivity Explained

Why eating raw apples or carrots causes mouth itching during birch pollen season.

Published by Safely Plate Editorial Team • Reading Time: 6 min read • Public Reference Guide (No Login Required)

Cross-Reacting Proteins

Proteins in fresh raw fruits and vegetables closely resemble airborne tree and weed pollens, triggering local oral mast cells.

Baking or microwaving fruits breaks down heat-labile proteins, allowing safe consumption without oral itching.

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