Scientists: Sheep wool is not a source of allergies

International Certification Body Recognizes Sheep Wool as Safe for Allergy sufferers

Scientists dispel the myth about sheep wool as an allergen

Scientists have proven that sheep wool is not allergenic, World of NAN reports citing sheepcentral.com.

Merino wool has long been a subject of debate. Australian Wool Innovation (AWI) has funded a long-term study to prove to the world that merino wool is not a source of allergy.

The research team included allergists, immunologists and dermatologists from around the world. They analyzed the results of 100 years of research. The analysis revealed that any irritation on the surface of the skin was only caused by coarse protruding fibers. That is, the cause of irritation was the type of fiber, but not its composition, wool has nothing to do with it.

The study found that fibers larger than 30-32 microns in diameter are coarse and cause skin irritation, while the average diameter of merino wool is 18.5 microns.

In addition, scientists have concluded that skin irritations can be caused by coarse synthetic fibers from acrylic and nylon, as well as wool fibers. That said, they believe that things made from high-quality merino wool may even be good for sensitive skin. After all, ultrafine wool fibers are easy to bend and are not irritating. The researchers also stressed that the known allergens used during the processing of textiles are now almost absent in wool products.

The findings have led the international certification body Allergy Standards Limited to officially recognize products made from merino wool as safe for people suffering from asthma and allergies.

AWI's fiber advocacy program manager, Angus Ireland, commented, "Proving the fact that wool is not an allergen is the first step in overcoming a well-established misconception. Our next goal is to get the results of the study widely accepted by allergists, dermatologists and physicians."

For Australian sheep farmers, this is a very significant development indeed, as Australia produces 80 percent of the world's supply of ultrafine merino wool with a diameter of 18.5 microns or less. The results of this study could increase the demand for wool products, which would significantly increase the income level of Australian sheep farmers.