Trehalose intolerance, driven by variations in the TREH gene which affects the enzyme trehalase, has been observed across several populations. Research from a medical genetics research center indicates that a sizable share of people in certain groups show reduced ability to digest trehalose, a sugar commonly found in fungi, a range of plants, and several processed foods that use trehalose as a sugar substitute, thickener, or stabilizer. In reported surveys, higher mutation frequencies emerged among East European and Central Asian populations, with notable rates observed in Koreans (approximately 58%), Mongolians (about 50%), Kazakhs (around 36%), and Yakuts (roughly 28%). Significantly, Bashkirs, Ashkenazi Jews, Chechens, and Karachays also displayed elevated mutation frequencies, estimated at 14% or higher. These figures have been published by a medical genetics data service and were subsequently referenced in media summaries. (Attribution: Genotek Center data, with cross-media reporting).
Further observations show that trehalase gene mutations appear with measurable frequency among Mountain Jews, Armenians, Ukrainians, Russians, and Belarusians. In these groups, estimated mutation rates range from roughly 2.5% to 4.6%, indicating a meaningful portion of individuals who may experience digestive discomfort after consuming trehalose-containing foods. (Attribution: regional genetic studies compiled for health reporting).
Trehalose itself is widely present across fungi, some algae, insects, and certain plants, and it is frequently used in modern food manufacturing as a substitute sugar, thickener, or stabilizer. Since trehalose can be difficult to digest for some, food manufacturers and healthcare professionals emphasize awareness of its presence in a variety of products, including candies and other processed items. (General product composition notes).
The digestion of trehalose hinges on the TREH gene, which directs the production of trehalase, the enzyme responsible for breaking down trehalose in the gut. When a pathogenic or common mutation reduces trehalase production, individuals may experience digestive upset such as abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea after eating foods that contain trehalose. This pattern mirrors lactose intolerance in terms of dietary implications, guiding dietary choices for populations with higher mutation frequencies. (Genetic and metabolic overview; attribution: broad clinical genetics literature).
Experts emphasize that identifying a higher genetic risk for trehalose intolerance can help people adapt their diets to avoid discomfort. For populations with elevated mutation frequencies, reducing trehalose intake and choosing alternative sweeteners or ingredients can support better digestive health. Clinicians and nutritionists advise incorporating this information into dietary planning to prevent unnecessary dietary restrictions or missteps, particularly in regions where mushrooms and trehalose-containing foods feature prominently in national cuisines. (Clinical guidance synthesis; attribution: medical nutrition commentary).
Scientists also note the practical implications for public health messaging and food labeling in diverse populations. Recognizing that trehalose intolerance is not uniform across all groups helps nutrition professionals tailor guidance and avoid overgeneralization in dietary recommendations. In communities with notable mutation frequencies, education about reading ingredient lists that include trehalose can empower individuals to make informed choices. (Public health insight; attribution: population genetics communications).
Emerging studies suggest that ongoing genetic research will refine risk estimates and may influence recommendations for food fortification, allergy and intolerance screening, and personalized nutrition plans in North America. As scientists continue to map trehalase activity and its genetic determinants, dietary guidelines may become more nuanced, balancing taste, texture, and digestive tolerance in diverse populations across the United States and Canada. (Research trajectory note; attribution: contemporary genetics reviews).