Allergies to mushrooms are most often associated with exposure to mushroom spores. These spores originate in the top of the mushroom, called the fruiting body. However, AHCC is derived from the mycelia, or root of the mushroom, which does not contain spores. In addition, as part of the manufacturing process, the raw material is subjected to a fermentation process that breaks down the high molecular weight molecules that are very tough to digest, into low molecular weight compounds. This process further lowers any allergenic potential. Many people who believe they are allergic to mushrooms take AHCC successfully. However, if you are concerned, please check with a healthcare professional that specializes in natural products or begin taking AHCC very slowly. This can be done by starting with a quarter of a capsule on the tip of your tongue and if you don’t experience itching in your mouth or other signs of allergy, work your way up to 2 to 6 capsules per day over a period of several days.