A 15-year-old boy suffered a severe allergic reaction after trying a new energy drink, and doctors later traced the cause to an unexpected ingredient: collagen derived from cod.
The case was presented at the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology’s 2026 Annual Scientific Meeting, held Nov. 12-16 in Phoenix, Arizona. According to the report, the teen developed widespread hives, wheezing and difficulty breathing after drinking the beverage. He was taken to the hospital, where he was treated with two doses of epinephrine, the rescue-inhaler medication albuterol, an antihistamine and IV fluids. His symptoms resolved after treatment.
A review of the drink’s label showed it contained 5 grams of collagen sourced from cod. The teen had previously reported mild throat itching and lip swelling after eating canned tuna, though he had eaten salmon without any problem. He also has a history of eczema, asthma and hay fever.
Despite his reaction, skin prick tests for tuna, cod and flounder allergies all came back negative. The findings are preliminary and have not yet been published in a peer-reviewed journal.
Why standard testing can miss it
Annabelle Rowland, M.D., the study’s author and an ACAAI member based in Georgia, said the case illustrates how difficult fish allergies can be to pin down.
“Collagen from fish is showing up in a growing number of products, from drinks to supplements. Standard fish allergy tests mostly look for a different fish protein and contain very little collagen, so a person can test negative and still react.”
A spokesperson for the Council for Responsible Nutrition, based in Washington, D.C., told Fox News Digital that collagen ingredients can come from several animal sources, including fish, cattle and pigs.
“While collagen has been studied for potential benefits related to skin and joint health, consumers should consider their individual health needs and sensitivities when choosing products. Fish-derived collagen can pose an allergy risk for people sensitive to fish, and processing or hydrolysis does not necessarily eliminate that risk.”
The spokesperson said people with fish allergies should carefully check product labels, which are legally required to identify major food allergens such as fish, and should talk with a healthcare provider before using these products. They also cautioned that a single reported reaction does not establish how often such reactions occur, and noted that manufacturers are legally required to disclose major allergens accurately.
What to look for on labels
Sung Poblete, Ph.D., CEO of the Virginia-based group Food Allergy Research & Education, said fish collagen is increasingly turning up in supplements, beverages and other wellness products.
“While many people with fish allergy avoid all finned fish, reactions can vary between individuals and between different fish-derived proteins. So someone can be allergic to one type of fin fish and not another.”
Poblete noted that federal rules require labels to identify the specific species of fish used, and that crustacean shellfish such as shrimp, crab and lobster must also be specifically named under FDA regulations.
“For someone managing fish or shellfish allergy, ‘marine collagen’ on a label calls for a closer look at the ingredient list and ‘contains’ statement. If the source still isn’t clear, FARE encourages people to call the manufacturer before using the product.”
Poblete recommended consumers ask manufacturers directly what their collagen is made from and how the product is sourced, packaged and tested for allergens.
“This case offers a timely reminder to read every label, including on drinks and supplements, and talk with an allergist about any reaction, even if a test came back negative.”
Fox News Digital reached out to energy drink manufacturers for comment.
