List of Tree Nut Foods

• Macadamia nuts are considered tree nuts under United States law. Martin Harvey/Photodisc/Getty Images

  Tree nut allergies are among the most common types of allergies in children as well as in adults. Those with tree nut allergies often experience severe reactions when exposed to a small amount of the nut. It is important to identify foods that contain tree nuts to avoid dangerous allergic reactions.

Nuts

• There are several different types of nuts that are labeled as tree nuts under U.S. law. Almonds, Brazil nuts, chestnuts, cashews, pecans, macadamia nuts, walnuts, pistachio nuts, hazelnuts and pine nuts are all considered tree nuts in the United States. People are often allergic to more than one type of nut, making it necessary to avoid all tree nuts to avoid allergic reactions. Cereals, cookies, candy, crackers, barbeque sauces and energy bars often have tree nut proteins placed in them during manufacturing. The Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act, or FALCPA, requires manufacturers to specifically list any items on packaged foods that contain tree nuts or tree nut proteins.

Coconut

• The American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology states that there is conflicting information as to whether coconut requires listing as a tree nut. Coconut is a member of the palm family and is not actually a tree nut. However, in 2006, the Food and Drug Administration, or FDA, listed coconut as a tree nut because of several cases of reactions to coconut. Those individuals with tree nut allergies should consult their doctor before consuming coconut to determine its safety.

Extracts/Ethnic Food

• It is common to find tree nut proteins in additional foods such as almond paste, nut meal, pesto, flavored coffee, chopped almonds and some cold cuts such as Mortadella. Avoid eating natural extracts such as pure almond extract, as it may contain tree nuts. Imitation extracts are generally considered safe. Ethnic restaurants such as Chinese, Indian, African and Thai often use tree nuts. Allergy sufferers should avoid dining in these restaurants to avoid allergic reactions. Cross contamination is a concern when eating out. Ice cream parlors commonly use nuts and are often a source of cross contamination.