Fish is a common food allergen, and a fish allergy is an immune system response to certain proteins found in fish and fish products. This type of allergy is more common in adults than in children and tends to be a lifelong allergy once developed. The proteins that typically trigger fish allergies are found in the flesh, skin, and sometimes bones of fish.
Fish proteins can be present in various food products, even if the fish is not the main ingredient. This can include soups, sauces, dressings, and Worcestershire sauce, among others. Additionally, fish gelatin, fish sauce, and some dietary supplements may also contain fish proteins.