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Anaphylaxis – a serious, life-threatening allergic reaction – is usually linked to peanuts or shellfish, but a recent case has raised a new concern.
A teenager had a severe allergic reaction to an energy drink, according to a report from the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI).
The case, which was presented at the ACAAI 2026 Annual Scientific Meeting held Nov. 12-16 in Phoenix, Arizona, involved a 15-year-old boy who developed “generalized hives,” wheezing and difficulty breathing after trying a new beverage.
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The teen was reportedly taken to the hospital, where he was given two doses of epinephrine, albuterol – a drug commonly used in rescue inhalers to help open the airways – an antihistamine and intravenous fluids. Her symptoms disappeared after treatment.
A 15-year-old boy (not pictured) developed “generalized hives,” wheezing and difficulty breathing after trying a new energy drink. (iStock)
A review of the drink’s label revealed that it contained 5 grams of collagen derived from cod.
According to the report, the teen reported mild itchy throat and swelling of the lips when he ate canned tuna, although he ate salmon without problems. He also suffers from eczema, asthma and allergic rhinitis (commonly known as hay fever).
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Despite the teen’s symptoms, skin tests for allergies to tuna, cod and flounder all came back negative.
These findings represent the first research presented at the ACAAI conference and have not yet been published in a peer-reviewed journal.
The teen received two doses of epinephrine, often administered in the form of an EpiPen, along with other treatments before his symptoms resolved. (iStock)
Allergist Annabelle Rowland, MD, study author and Georgia-based ACAAI member, commented in a press release that this case shows “how tricky fish allergy can be.”
“Fish collagen is showing up in an increasing number of products, from drinks to supplements,” she said. “Standard fish allergy tests primarily look for a different fish protein and contain very little collagen, so a person can test negative and still react.”
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In a statement sent to Fox News Digital, a spokesperson for the Council for Responsible Nutrition in Washington, D.C., said collagen ingredients can come from several animal sources, such as fish, livestock and pigs.
“Although collagen has been studied for its potential benefits related to skin and joint health, consumers should consider their individual health needs and sensitivities when choosing products,” they advised.
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“Fish-derived collagen may pose an allergy risk for people with fish sensitivities, and processing or hydrolysis does not necessarily eliminate this risk.”
The spokesperson recommended that people with fish allergies carefully review product labels, which are necessary to identify major food allergens, such as fish. Consumers should also consult their health care provider before considering these products.
Experts recommend that consumers with fish allergies read product labels carefully. (iStock)
“The case presented to the ACAAI highlights the importance of sensitization to allergens, but a single suspected reaction does not establish the frequency with which such reactions occur,” they added.
“Product manufacturers are required by law to provide accurate information about ingredients and key allergens so that consumers can make informed choices.”
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Sung Poblete, Ph.D., CEO of Virginia-based Food Allergy Research & Education, told Fox News Digital that fish collagen is increasingly used in products such as supplements, beverages and wellness items.
“Although many people with fish allergies avoid all finned fish, reactions can vary between individuals and between different fish-derived proteins,” she said. “So a person can be allergic to one type of fish and not another.”
“Consumers with fish allergies should look for fish-derived ingredients and specific fish species on the labeling of foods, beverages and supplements,” advised one expert. (iStock)
Poblete added that labels must identify fish species. Shellfish, such as shrimp, crab and lobster, must also be specifically identified, according to the FDA.
“For someone with a fish or shellfish allergy, ‘marine collagen’ on a label requires a closer look at the ingredient list and ‘contains’ statement,” she said. “If the source is still unclear, FARE encourages people to call the manufacturer before using the product.”
“A single suspected reaction does not establish the frequency with which such reactions occur.”
Consumers are encouraged to ask the manufacturer what collagen is made from and how the product is obtained, packaged and tested for allergens.
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“This case is a timely reminder to read every label, including on beverages and supplements, and to speak with an allergist about any reactions, even if a test comes back negative,” Poblete added.
Fox News Digital has reached out to energy drink makers for comment.
Gn Health
