Nickel is a chemical element found in many food items like chocolate, oats, nuts, shellfish, tea, gelatin, and canned fruits and vegetables. The amount of nickel in a food depends on the nickel content in the soil where it was grown. The typical daily dietary intake of nickel is 70–400 μg/d, but diets high in nickel-rich foods can supply more than 900 μg/d. This metal can also be released from stainless steel pots and pans, especially when cooking acidic foods like tomatoes, lemons, or vinegar. While nickel is not dangerous for someone who is not allergic to it, it can cause problems for those with a sensitivity.How To Identify Nickel Allergy? Approximately 8% to 19% of the population in Europe has a nickel allergy. This is usually a reaction to physical touch, like touching a piece of equipment made of nickel. However, other people react to nickel introduced through their diet. Even in low doses, their skin can react in a similar manner, producing contact dermatitis. This includes symptoms like redness, irritation, inflammation, or rashes on the skin. For some, the reaction goes beyond skin irritation. Symptoms can include headaches, stomachaches, and respiratory symptoms, which are collectively known as Systemic Nickel Allergy Syndrome (SNAS). Doctors have also linked nickel sensitivity to symptoms of fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue, and other chronic diseases. However, for those without sensitivity, moderate levels of nickel in foods are generally safe. It is also recommended to avoid eating nickel-rich foods on an empty stomach, as this can worsen the effects. Sources Of NickelThe level of nickel in foods depends on the plant species and the nickel content in the soil. In seafood, it depends on the aquatic environment. Some foods are known to contain more nickel than others. For instance, flour and grains, such as oats, buckwheat, whole wheat, and brown rice, are high in nickel. Seeds like sunflower, sesame, and alfalfa also contain moderate amounts of nickel. Seafood and shellfish, including shrimp, mussels, and crawfish, are rich in nickel, and certain legumes like chickpeas, lentils, peanuts, and soy products are also high in nickel. Green vegetables such as kale, spinach, lettuce, and cabbage should be avoided or eaten in moderation. Most fruits are safe to eat, but figs, pineapples, prunes, and raspberries are more likely to trigger a reaction. Chocolate, due to its fat content in cocoa, can increase the potential for nickel-related reactions. If you are reactive to foods containing nickel, your doctor may recommend a low-nickel diet. Alternatives like cornmeal, corn tortillas, and cornflakes are good substitutes for wheat-based foods. Non-seafood meats, such as chicken, beef, and pork, are low in nickel and safe to consume. Most fruits, including pears, apples, strawberries, and grapes, are also suitable for a low-nickel diet. Polished rice and root vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and sweet potatoes contain only trace amounts of nickel, making them safe choices. Managing a nickel allergy requires awareness of high-nickel foods and suitable alternatives. With a few adjustments, it is possible to maintain a healthy diet while avoiding symptoms.