Cocoa (Theobroma cacao) is a tree from the mallow family, whose seeds are used to produce cocoa powder and chocolate. Cocoa allergy can cause various symptoms: skin, gastrointestinal, respiratory, as well as anaphylaxis. People who work with cocoa seeds are especially at risk due to inhalation of allergens. The main allergenic components of cocoa have not been identified, but the 2S albumin is associated with allergenicity. Cross-reactivity with chocolate, lupine, peanuts, walnuts, and other nuts is possible.
Cocoa is a plant used worldwide for making chocolate and confectionery products. Despite the absence of main allergenic components, cocoa seed proteins (2S albumin, storage proteins of 67 kDa, 30, 44, and 21 kDa) are linked to allergenicity. Cross-reactivity with chocolate, lupine, nuts, peanuts, milk, tobacco, and ragweed is caused by similar polyphenols. The test helps detect sensitization and prevent severe allergic reactions.
FEIA (Fluorescence Enzyme Immunoassay) – a fluorescent enzyme immunoassay that allows quantitative determination of sensitization levels to the cocoa allergen.
Please note that the research method and reference values may vary depending on the equipment and test systems used.