The Dark Side of Favas

I was pleased to see several recipes in recent weeks highlighting fava beans and their many uses. However, I was surprised to see them printed without any warning about the potential dangers of fava beans to those carrying the gene for favism, an extreme allergy to favas.

Favism is most common among Mediterranean populations, especially those from the islands of Sicily, Sardinia, Crete and Rhodes. The allergy can cause a host of symptoms, from hives and sneezing in mild cases to death from the explosion of hemoglobin (a blood component) in the most severe cases.

In my native Italy, this allergy is so widespread that it is actually illegal to plant favas within two kilometers of any inhabited area, because the pollen alone can be deadly to sensitive individuals.

If you are of Mediterranean ancestry and have never tried fava beans, please do so cautiously at first. Start with one bean. If you experience any uncomfortable symptoms, do not consume any more favas and see your doctor immediately. Medicines are available to stop the most severe reactions.

SABINA MAGLIOCCO

Northridge