Gummy shark emerges as a safe and sustainable option for children with fish allergy
A groundbreaking clinical study has found that children with a fish allergy may safely consume gummy shark, a species commonly sold as flake and often served in fish and chips. The discovery is not only significant for allergy sufferers but also highlights the role of sustainable seafood in modern diets.
The study, conducted at Epworth Hospital in Melbourne and co-authored by experts from James Cook University (JCU), suggests that gummy shark may offer a unique dietary alternative for families struggling with fish allergy management.
Dr Thimo Ruethers, based at JCU’s Tropical Future Institute in Singapore and Adjunct Senior Lecturer in Townsville, said fish allergy affects about 1% of the general population. “Fish allergy is associated with a higher risk of anaphylaxis compared to many other food allergies. Even skin contact or inhaling fumes can trigger life-threatening reactions,” he explained.
Professor Andreas Lopata, Head of the Molecular Allergy Research Laboratory at JCU, added that in seafood-heavy countries, up to 6% of children may develop a fish allergy, making it one of the leading causes of food allergy-related deaths. “Currently, the only effective management is strict avoidance of all fish, which is not ideal nutritionally,” he said.
Study highlights promising results
Researchers explored whether children allergic to bony fish could tolerate cartilaginous fish such as sharks. Gummy shark was fed to 21 children with a median age of five years, all of whom had a history of bony fish allergy.
“All 21 children were able to eat gummy shark safely, even though 33% had a positive skin prick test to the shark,” said Dr Ruethers.
The team is now analyzing blood samples to map the molecular pathways that enabled this tolerance. Identifying biomarkers could allow doctors to make safe dietary recommendations for allergic children through simple blood tests in the future.
Sustainability and nutrition benefits
Gummy shark is one of the few shark species harvested from certified sustainable fisheries, making it a responsible seafood choice. For children unable to eat other fish, it could provide essential nutrients like protein and omega-3 fatty acids without triggering allergic reactions.
The findings, published in The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: In Practice (DOI: 10.1016/j.jaip.2025.05.011), will be presented as a Hot Publication at the upcoming Australasian Society of Clinical Immunology and Allergy (ASCIA) conference in Brisbane from 2–5 September 2025.
This research opens new doors for parents, clinicians, and policymakers seeking safe, sustainable, and nutritious alternatives for managing childhood fish allergies.
Stay updated with Medical News Pakistan
CLICK HERE TO JOIN Medical News WhatsApp community to get the latest updates on global health guidelines, medical research, and expert insights directly on your phone.