A corn allergy is having an immune response to corn or its products. The main culprit of these symptoms is a protein called zein. Zein is a protein in corn that can trigger a corn allergy reaction.
Corn comes in a variety of forms, which makes corn allergies hard to find without proper knowledge. These forms include oil, flour, and cornstarch. Some refined corn oils may not contain zein and are safe to consume; however, it is important to consult an allergist beforehand and exercise extreme caution. Processed foods also contain corn. Our allergists understand the difficulties faced living with a corn allergy and are here to help diagnose and treat your condition.
Corn Allergy Symptoms
- Urticaria (Hives) or corn allergy rash
- Nausea
- Sneezing
- Asthma
- Headaches
- Anaphylaxis
Most symptoms of corn allergy are mild. Patients will feel a slight discomfort that will usually subside in a couple of hours. While it is rare for corn allergies to cause severe allergic reactions, anaphylaxis can occur. It’s important to get your corn allergy or sensitivity diagnosed early to prevent an allergic reaction.
Corn Allergy Diagnosis
Corn allergies are hard to diagnose without a food challenge or elimination diet. A food challenge requires you to eat corn to see if it evokes a reaction. This should be done in a clinical setting. Contact a food allergy doctor to set up your food challenge.
An elimination diet requires you to remove corn from your diet for at least two weeks. During this time, it’s helpful to keep a food journal documenting the foods you eat and any symptoms you experience. If you don’t experience symptoms after eliminating corn from your diet, it’s likely that corn was the cause of your allergic reaction.
Corn Allergy Treatment
Avoiding corn is the best way to make sure you don’t experience an allergic reaction. We have provided a corn allergy food list that you may need to avoid, as well as a list of corn-free foods that you can enjoy.
If avoidance isn’t possible, you can treat your mild symptoms with antihistamines. Our NYC allergists will determine which medications will best soothe your symptoms. We may also suggest an Epipen or Auvi-Q if you have a more severe condition. You should carry it with you in case an allergic reaction to corn arises.
For corn allergy treatment or questions, call the allergists at NY Allergy & Sinus Centers. We have access to the latest testing and treatment, and we offer convenient allergy and sinus clinics throughout Manhattan and Queens. Call 212-686-6321 to book your appointment today.
Corn Allergy Foods to Avoid
| Alcohol | Bacon | Certain Soups |
| Cookies | Bread | Popcorn |
| Grits | Pudding | Bologna |
| Powdered Sugar | Baking Mixes | Sausage |
| Ale/Beer | Ice cream | Tortillas |
| Cornflakes | Salad Dressing | Crackers |
| Gum Preserves | Certain Jams | Peanut Butter |
Foods That Are Corn Free
| Wheat Flour | Eggs | Wheat-based Pasta |
| Pure | All Natural Meats | Quinoa |
| Locally Produced Honey | Beans | Plain Yogurt |
| Chocolate Chips | Rice | Certain Pancakes |
| 100% Fruit Juice | Mixed Nuts | 100% Rolled Oats |
| Cocoa | Dried Fruit Snacks | Unprocessed Cheese |
| Rice Bread | Wheat Bread | Pitas |
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