A selection of common tyramine-rich foods arranged on a rustic kitchen table, including aged cheese, cured meats, red wine, soy sauce, sauerkraut, and overripe bananas. Ideal for educational content about migraine triggers or low-tyramine diets.
By Emma on July 29, 2025 (Last updated: August 19, 2025)
Top Foods High in Tyramine You Should Know Before Grocery Shopping
If you're prone to migraines, take MAOI medications, or have been advised to follow a low-tyramine diet, it’s important to know which foods to avoid. Tyramine is a naturally occurring compound that can raise blood pressure and trigger headaches in some people.
Let’s look at the most common tyramine-rich foods to help you shop smarter with OnlineGroceryList.com
1. Aged Cheeses
High tyramine alert! As cheese ages, proteins break down and tyramine levels rise.
Examples:
- Cheddar
- Blue cheese
- Swiss
- Parmesan
- Gouda
Low-tyramine alternative: Ricotta, mozzarella, cottage cheese.
2. Cured or Processed Meats
Curing and aging increase tyramine content. These meats are often off-limits for people on MAOIs.
Examples:
- Salami
- Pepperoni
- Ham
- Bacon
- Bologna
- Prosciutto
Pro tip: Go for fresh, unprocessed meats instead.
3. Fermented Foods
Fermentation = tyramine production. These foods are flavorful but may be problematic.
Examples:
- Sauerkraut
- Kimchi
- Soy sauce
- Miso
- Tempeh
Safer alternatives: Fresh veggies and herbs for flavor.
4. Overripe or Spoiled Fruits
As fruit spoils, tyramine levels increase—especially in tropical fruits.
Examples:
- Bananas (especially spotted or overripe)
- Avocados (very soft or browning)
- Figs
- Raisins
Shop tip: Only buy what you’ll eat in a few days to avoid spoilage.
5. Alcoholic Beverages
Alcohol fermentation can also produce tyramine.
Examples:
- Red wine
- Tap beer (especially unpasteurized)
- Sherry
- Vermouth
If you're sensitive, go easy on alcohol or choose low-tyramine options.
6. Leftovers Stored Too Long
Even low-tyramine foods can build up tyramine over time if left in the fridge too long.
Examples:
- Cooked meats
- Casseroles
- Soups
- Egg dishes
Safe rule: Eat leftovers within 24–48 hours and always refrigerate promptly.
Shop Smart: Build a Low-Tyramine Grocery List
To make shopping easier, OnlineGroceryList.com helps you search, filter, and save items to avoid high-tyramine foods.
Create your personalised grocery list in seconds and avoid the guesswork.
š Start your grocery list now at onlinegrocerylist.com