We have a smoker and we will smoke meats from time to time. But I'm wonder if this is safe for me. THe smoke just comes from the natural wood chips they haven't been sooked in anything so the smoke from the chips is what the flavor comes from. If I eat the meat after it's done smoking it should be fine right? Thoughts anyone?
Melissa

I have some tree pollen allergies like cedar and birch but the chips we have are hickory and something else. We smoke them for flavor. Most meats hang for weeks.....like beef, I seem to be fine with beef. I guess when I'm feeling good and not so reactive, I will give it a try. I'm thinking if it is fresh meat and we smoke it and eat it right away it should be okay. Smoked chicken is sooooo good.
Melissa

  If you stay away from the smoke while it's smoking, it might be okay.  I eat home-smoked meats occasionally, but I'm careful to have it only when I'm doing pretty well.  

  If you're worried that mold is a trigger, you might want to remove the bark from the wood before you use it.  That will eliminate any mold or fungus growing on it.  Store the wood in a dry place, too.  

  The temperature inside the smoker has to be very carefully monitored.  If it stays too low for too long, histamine can be produced in the meat.  You can check on the internet to see what temp range is safe.  With chicken, especially, make sure by thermometer that it reaches a completely cooked and safe temperature in the thickest part of the thigh after no more than 2 hours.  I freeze what we won't be using at that meal right away, too.  Smoked meat freezes well.

  As with anything you ingest, always a good idea to start with moderation to make sure you won't react.

I don't do well with smoked/processed meats.  I love pizza but become symptomatic for a day or two after eatings.  We have a smoker so we do smoke meats every few months (pork/chicken/vension/sausages.)  I try to make side dishes that I love so as not to miss the "meat" portion of the dinner.  I just don't feel "well" after eating. The symptoms may be mild but they are there,