[Food chemistry and technology aspects of nickel-deficient nutrition in endogenously-induced allergic contact eczemas].

With reference to endogenous nickel contact dermatitis, the quantity of nickel resorbed is dependent on the individual capacity for absorption, the element species of nickel in the food matrix and the total nickel content in the food. As the content of nickel varies widely in individual foods, it is difficult to make any definite dietary recommendations. The wide fluctuation in the nickel content of vegetable food stuffs is due to variations in the composition of soil. This means the availability of nickel to plants is not constant. The fluctuating content of nickel in the soil also has a heavy influence. Nickel contamination can be considerable when food is prepared in the usual way. The danger of nickel contamination during industrial preparation of food has not yet been fully explored. In tests for endogenous nickel contact eczema, organic nickel should be used. Another way is to administer a diet containing only defined minute amounts of nickel.