Approximately 1.8 million Americans suffer from Nut Allergies. Allergic reactions to tree nuts are some of the foremost causes of fatal and near-fatal reactions to foods. Tree nuts include, but are not limited to, walnuts, almonds, hazelnuts, coconuts, cashews, pistachios, and Brazil nuts. These are distinct from peanuts, which is actually a legume (which means they are similar to peas or beans), or seeds such as sunflower or sesame seeds.
Similar to those with peanut allergies, most individuals who are diagnosed with a tree nut allergy tend to suffer throughout their entire life. As you can see below, tree nuts are ingredients in many unexpected foods.
Some Unexpected Sources of Tree Nuts
- Salads and salad dressing
- Barbecue sauce
- Breading for chicken
- Pancakes
- Meat-free burgers
- Pasta
- Honey
- Fish dishes
- Pie crust
- Mandelonas (peanuts soaked in almond flavoring
- Mortadella (may contain pistachios)
Keep In Mind!
- Some experts advise patients suffering from nut allergies to avoid peanuts and other nuts because of the high likelihood of cross-contact at processing facilities. A person with an allergy to one type of nut has a higher chance of being allergic to other types. Discuss with your doctor whether to avoid other nuts.
- Nuts may be found in a wide range of unexpected foods for flavor or consistency. If ingredient information is not provided for a particular food or you question its accuracy, it is wise to completely avoid the food.
- Younger siblings of children with nut allergies may be at increased risk. Your doctor can provide guidance about testing for siblings.
- If your doctor has prescribed epinephrine, always carry it with you. Learn more about anaphylaxis.
- Many experts advise patients who have been diagnosed with nut allergies to avoid all tree nuts.
Frequently asked questions
Should coconut be avoided by someone with nut allergies?
You should consult your Doctor. Coconut is actually the seed of a drupaceous fruit and has not been restricted in the diets of people with nut allergies. In October of 2006, however, the FDA started identifying the coconut as a tree nut. There have been a small number of allergic reactions to coconut, but most reactions occurred in people who were not allergic to nuts. Please ask your doctor if you need to keep away from coconut.
Is nutmeg safe?
Nutmeg is obtained from the seeds of the tropical tree species Myristica fragrans. It is typically safe for an individual with nut allergies.
Should water chestnuts be avoided?
The water chestnut is not a nut; it is an edible portion of a plant root known as a “corm.” It is safe for someone who has nut allergies
