Halloumi Cheese Histamine Information

Halloumi cheese, a semi-hard, unripened and brined cheese traditionally made from a mixture of goat's and sheep's milk, does not appear to have significant levels of histamine. Its production and ripening process, which are shorter compared to long-ripened cheeses, do not promote the formation of high histamine levels. Therefore, it's not typically included in the lists of high histamine foods [1]. However, individual sensitivities can vary, and some people may experience reactions to foods that contain even minimal amounts of histamine. Certain dairy products can act as histamine liberators to promote its release [2]. As Halloumi is a dairy product, for someone with high sensitivity, it might provoke a histamine release, although there is no concrete research-backed evidence that clearly classifies Halloumi as a significant histamine liberator. In terms of the ingredients that go into making halloumi cheese, they are generally simpler and contain less potential for histamine stimulation compared to hard, mature cheeses. Ingredients include milk (often a mix of goat and sheep's milk), salt, and vegetable-based rennet. Note again, individual sensitivity varies: for instance, some people may have issues with enzyme-based rennet, as enzymes can act as potential histamine liberators [2]. It's important to note that cooking methods can impact histamine content, too. Often Halloumi is grilled or fried, and higher cooking temperatures can increase histamine content in some foods, but again, specific research focusing on Halloumi's histamine content or liberating potential after grilling or frying is lacking. This product has not been thoroughly researched to publish specific information regarding Histamine presence or its exact impact on liberating Histamine. Our team is working hard on this, and data will be available soon. References: 1. Maintz, L., & Novak, N. (2007). Histamine and histamine intolerance. The American journal of clinical nutrition, 85(5), 1185-1196. 2. Wöhrl, S., & Hemmer, W. (2004). Histamine intolerance-like symptoms in healthy volunteers after oral provocation with liquid histamine. Allergy and Asthma Proceedings.