Do you have an almond allergy? If so, keep reading for a list of almond free alternatives to try and what hidden sources of almonds to avoid.
Almonds are tasty treats commonly found in trail mix, desserts and other common foods. Almonds are packed with Vitamin E, magnesium, and potassium, and other nutrients.
Unfortunately, not everyone can enjoy this nutrient dense food due to some people being allergic to almonds. You may benefit from reading this blog if you are allergic to almonds.
Almond Food Family
Almonds are members of Plum Food Family, a subdivision of the Rose (Rosaceae) Food Family (source) and are often called the “Queen of the Rose” family (source).
If you are allergic or sensitive to almonds, you may also be allergic or sensitive to other foods in the Plum Food Family. You may need to exercise caution with the following foods:
- Apricot
- Cherry
- Nectarine
- Peach
- Plum
- Prune
Almond Cross Reactivity
Similar proteins to almonds are present in other foods as well. People who are allergic to almonds, and sometimes especially children, may need to avoid these foods due to cross reactivity.
The following foods in the Rosaceae family are associated with almond cross reactivity (source).
- Apricot
- Apple
- Blackberry
- Boysenberry
- Peach
- Pear
- Raspberry
- Rosehips (sometimes found in supplements)
- Strawberry
Is Almond a Tree Nut?
Yes, Almond is a tree nut (source). People who can not eat almond may need to avoid other tree nuts including (source):
- Brazil Nuts
- Cashews
- Hazelnuts
- Pecans
- Pistachios
- Walnuts
Hidden Sources of Almonds
Almonds are found in common foods such as candies, desserts, pastries, vegetarian dishes and much more (source).
People with allergy to almond need to be cautious with the food listed below as almonds may be hidden in these (source):
- Alcoholic beverages with nut flavoring
- Almond Butter
- Almond Milk
- Almond Oil
- Almond Paste
- Amaretto
- Baked Goods
- Barbecue sauces
- Candy
- Cereals
- Chocolates
- Cookies
- Crackers
- Energy bars
- Flavored coffees
- Frozen desserts
- Granola
- Green Bean dishes (sometimes green beans are served with sliced or slivered almonds).
- Marinades
- Marzipan
- Mixed Nuts
- Mortadella (aka “Italian baloney”)
- Non-dairy coffee creamers
- Nut Butters
- Smoothies
- Trail Mix
Almond Alternatives
There are many available alternatives to almonds and almond products. If a recipe calls for almonds you have many choices (source) .
When deciding on an alternative, be sure to consider any other food allergies (especially with other tree nuts) as well as the function of the ingredients. (Tree nuts are included in this list.) Almonds and their alternatives may give crunch, texture, flavor, and nutrients.
- Cashews
- Crisp Rice Cereal
- Dried Cranberries
- Granola (without nuts)
- Hemp Seeds
- Oatmeal
- Peanuts
- Pecans
- Pistachio
- Pumpkin Seeds
- Raisins
- Sunflower Seeds
- Sunflower Butter
- Vanilla extract
- Walnuts
Bottom Line
Almond allergy can range from mild to life threatening so it is extremely important to identify which foods must be strictly avoided and which are more suitable. Working with an Allergist, Registered Dietitian or Certified Leap Therapist can help with this.
