What is Alpha-gal Syndrome?
Alpha-gal syndrome (AGS) is an allergy to a sugar molecule called galactose-α-1,3-galactose, or alpha-gal. It can develop after a tick bite and may cause reactions to red meat and, for some people, other products made from mammal-derived ingredients like vitamin D3. Reactions vary in severity, up to and including anaphylaxis, and often begin within hours after exposure.
What Is Lanolin?
Lanolin is a wax obtained from sheep’s wool. It can be used as a starting material for vitamin D3, also known as cholecalciferol. Because lanolin comes from a mammal, people with AGS may have questions about products containing lanolin-derived ingredients.
The extent to which processing removes alpha-gal from lanolin-derived vitamin D3 has not been established. People with AGS should ask their healthcare provider whether they should avoid these ingredients. Highly sensitive individuals may have an allergic reaction to products containing vitamin D3 as cholecalciferol.
Vitamin D3 in Carlson Products
The vitamin D3 in most Carlson products is sourced from lanolin, and may contain traces of alpha-gal. Additionally, Carlson’s Plant-Based Super Daily D3 and Vegetarian DHA products may also contain alpha-gal derived from algae.
Carlson Cod Liver Oil naturally contains vitamin D3 from cod livers. However, because processing can reduce the amount of vitamin D3 present in the finished product, Carlson adds lanolin-derived vitamin D3 when needed to meet the claimed amount listed on the label. The amount added can vary from batch to batch and product to product, but virtually all cod liver oil products will contain some added vitamin D3 derived from lanolin.
If You Have Alpha-Gal Syndrome
People with AGS can have different sensitivities and may not react to every product containing mammal-derived ingredients. Ask your healthcare provider which ingredients and products you should avoid. For questions about the vitamin D3 source in a specific Carlson product, contact us with the product name and lot number. Please note that raw material sources may vary without direct indication on product labels.
This information is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for medical advice. Seek emergency care for a severe allergic reaction.