Zinfandel Grape Histamine Information

Zinfandel grapes, a type of wine grape, do not naturally contain high levels of histamine. However, the process of fermentation can lead to an increase in histamine levels, particularly in red wines. This can be problematic for those with histamine intolerance. Zinfandel grapes themselves are not considered histamine liberators, however, when made into red wine their histamine levels can drastically increase, akin to the list of foods you provided which also includes red wine as a high-histamine content item. As stated by Maintz and Novak (2007), the histamine content of red wine can range from 3.8 to 1200 micrograms per litre. In relation to histamine-lowering effects, there are no known properties of Zinfandel grapes that would lower histamine levels. As with all foods and drinks, individual sensitivity and tolerance can vary considerably. Considering the products made from Zinfandel grapes, especially red wine, it is important to note that they can inhibit the enzyme diamine oxidase (DAO), responsible for breaking down histamine in the body. Alcohol, as reported by Kuefner, et al. (2004), inhibits DAO thus delay the breakdown of histamine which can amplify the effects of histamine in the body. In conclusion, consuming Zinfandel grapes or products made from them, particularly red wine, may increase histamine levels in the body by both containing histamine and inhibiting its breakdown in the body. This could potentially result in histamine-related symptoms in individuals with a decreased ability to metabolize histamine. References: 1. Maintz, L., & Novak, N. (2007). Histamine and histamine intolerance. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 85(5), 1185-1196. 2. Kuefner, M. A., Schwelberger, H. G., Weidenhiller, M., Hahn, E. G., & Raithel, M. (2004). Both catabolic pathways of histamine via histamine-N-methyltransferase and diamine oxidase are diminished in the colonic mucosa of patients with food allergy. Inflammation Research, 53(Supplement 1), S31-S32.