Can people with tree nut allergies eat cashews?
Quick Answer
No
Cashews are classified as tree nuts. Therefore, people with tree nut allergies should avoid eating cashews to prevent allergic reactions.
What Is It?
Tree nut allergies are among the most common food allergies in both children and adults. The term tree nuts refers to nuts not grown on trees, such as cashews, almonds, and walnuts.
Why It Can Be Risky
Eating cashews when you have a tree nut allergy can lead to severe allergic reactions.
- Skin reactions, such as hives, redness or itchiness
- Digestive problems, such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Anaphylaxis, a severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that can occur within seconds or minutes of exposure to an allergen
Safe Alternatives
People with tree nut allergies can opt for seeds like flaxseeds, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds as alternatives to cashews.