Phenylketonuria (PKU) is an autosomal recessive metabolic genetic disorder characterized by a mutation in the gene for the hepatic enzyme phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH), rendering it non-functional.
It is a rare inherited disorder that causes an amino acid called phenylalanine to build up in the body.
It causes mental retardation, seizures, and developmental defects.
Food high in phenylalanine like beef steak, lean pork chops, tuna, firm tofu, chicken breast, milk, etc should be avoided.