Tree nuts are a common food group, but for individuals with allergies, understanding exactly What Are Tree Nuts is crucial for safety. While the term might seem straightforward, it encompasses a variety of nuts that grow on trees and are often used in cooking, baking, and even non-food products. This guide will clarify what constitutes a tree nut, highlight some less obvious sources, and discuss important considerations for those with tree nut allergies.
Many people are familiar with common tree nuts like almonds, walnuts, pecans, and cashews. However, the category extends beyond these. It’s important to recognize that from a botanical perspective, some of these “nuts” are actually seeds. Nevertheless, from an allergy and food labeling standpoint, the term “tree nut” is consistently used.
For individuals managing tree nut allergies, awareness extends beyond just whole nuts. Tree nut extracts and flavorings can be hidden dangers. For example, natural extracts like pure almond extract should be avoided by those with almond allergies. Wintergreen extract might pose a risk for those with filbert/hazelnut allergies. Imitation or artificial extracts are generally considered safer alternatives, but careful label checking is always recommended to confirm the ingredients. Products like Gianduja, a chocolate and nut mixture, marzipan, nougat, Nutella, pesto, and nut meals often contain tree nuts. Even alcoholic beverages can sometimes contain nut flavorings, and these are not always clearly labeled under the same regulations as food, requiring extra caution and potentially direct manufacturer inquiries to ensure product safety.
Beyond food, tree nut oils can appear in unexpected non-food items. Ingredients like almond oil or Moroccan oil (Argan oil) are tree nut derivatives frequently found in shampoos, conditioners, cosmetics, lotions, and soaps. While these products are not ingested, the risk of skin sensitization from topical application of nut oils is not fully understood. While some individuals might safely use these products, others may experience reactions. Consulting with an allergist is recommended to determine the appropriate level of caution for personal care products containing tree nut oils.
Adding to the complexity, the FDA and allergy organizations acknowledge a group of atypical tree nuts that require special attention. These less common tree nuts, which are mandated by US law (FALCPA) to be labeled, include: beech nut, butter nut, chinquapin, coconut, ginkgo, hickory, lychee nut, pili nut, and shea nut. Coconut is a particularly interesting case. Despite being legally classified as a tree nut, most individuals with tree nut allergies can safely consume coconut and coconut oil. However, it’s essential to discuss this with an allergist before introducing coconut into the diet, especially if it hasn’t been consumed before developing the allergy. The other atypical tree nuts on the list often resemble fruits and may be considered fruits in culinary contexts.
It’s also important to clarify what are not tree nuts. Nutmeg, water chestnuts, and butternut squash, despite their names, are not botanically related to tree nuts and are generally safe for those with tree nut allergies. Similar to coconut, if there are concerns about consuming any of these atypical or borderline foods, consulting with an allergist is always the best course of action. In some situations, allergists may recommend specific testing, including food challenges, to definitively determine if an allergy exists.
In conclusion, understanding what are tree nuts goes beyond just the common varieties. It involves recognizing hidden sources in extracts and flavorings, being aware of nut oils in non-food products, and understanding the nuances of atypical tree nuts like coconut. For anyone managing a tree nut allergy, diligent label reading, careful product selection, and open communication with an allergist are essential for maintaining safety and well-being.
