Bitten and Burdened
K-State researchers aim to curb negative impacts of alpha-gal syndrome
By Pat Melgares
Photo by Dan Donnert
Results of a survey conducted by K-State researchers and extension specialists indicate that a majority of Kansans are aware of an allergy to red meat associated with tick bites, but the same group says there is a lack of information about the disease.
K-State Extension nutrition and wellness specialist Priscilla Brenes said alpha-gal syndrome – the term used to describe patients who develop an allergic reaction to dietary red meats and mammalian related products – is becoming more common across Kansas, especially in the rural southeast.
In 2024, the K-State team received a university Global Food Systems grant to study consumers’ information needs related to alleviating the negative impacts of alpha-gal syndrome.
“The majority of those who responded (to an initial survey of Kansas extension agents) indicated that there is not enough information available regarding AGS,” she said. “They want to know more about this topic so that they can educate the people in their communities.”
Those findings were supported by an early 2025 survey of Kansas residents. Some of the key findings of that work include:
- 95% are aware of alpha-gal syndrome.
- 96% knew that alpha-gal syndrome is related to tick bites.
- 88% are familiar with the symptoms.
- 84% knew someone with alpha-gal syndrome within their county.
- 89% felt there is not enough information about alpha-gal syndrome for the public.
- 32% have been diagnosed with alpha-gal syndrome.
“Our focus is shifting toward the development of educational materials, including fact sheets designed for extension professionals,” Brenes said. “These resources can be used in programming or shared directly with community members. We have already begun community engagement by attending an alpha-gal support group meeting in Iola, where we shared some of our initial research findings
She added: “Moving forward, we plan to expand our outreach by developing online resources for the alpha-gal website. Additionally, we are collaborating with neighboring states to strengthen regional efforts and provide more comprehensive education and support to improve the quality of life for those affected by alpha-gal syndrome.”
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, alpha-gal syndrome can occur after a tick bite. A primary culprit is the lonestar tick, which is more prevalent in southern, eastern and central states.
Symptoms occur after people eat red meat or are exposed to other products made from mammals, and may include:
- Hives or an itchy rash.
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Severe stomach pain.
- Heartburn or indigestion.
- Diarrhea.
- Cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.
- A drop in blood pressure.
- Swelling of the lips, throat, tongue or eyelids.
- Dizziness or faintness.
A report from the Yale School of Medicine indicates that the levels of antibodies that cause the allergic reaction decline over time, and some people are again able to eat red meat without an allergic reaction. Michael Chao, a meat scientist at Kansas State University, said sharing information with consumers includes helping people understand how they can reintroduce red meat into their diet.
Using mice models similar to humans, Chao is conducting research to test the reaction of numerous meat products -- hot dogs, steak, jerky and others – in those who are affected by AGS.
“In this way, we can find a better relationship between eating red meat and humans’ response to it,” Chao said. “Our hope is that we can use that information to help people reintroduce red meat into their diet when they’re ready for it.”
K-State entomologist Yoonseong Park said that while the lonestar tick is the main culprit in causing AGS in humans, studies indicate that less than 10% of those bitten by that tick actually develop the allergic reaction to red meat.
He adds that like any allergy, people may have varying levels of sensitivity to the allergen: “Some people are not very sensitive,” he said, “and might be able to eat some levels of red meat.”
However, anyone who suspects they have developed an allergic reaction to AGS – and especially those who have become highly sensitive to red meat and related products -- should consult with a physician. In extreme cases, the allergen could cause death in AGS patients.
“I’m an entomologist, and so my advice to people who want to avoid this allergen is to just not be bitten by ticks,” said Park, noting that lonestar tick activity picks up in Kansas in April and early spring.