Peanuts and tree nuts are quite different. Peanuts are actually classified as legumes and grow in the ground, while tree nuts grow on trees. Having an allergy to one does not necessarily mean being allergic to the other.
A legume — grows in the ground. Most common cause of anaphylaxis in children.
Peanut and tree nut allergies are more likely to persist into adulthood than other food allergies such as egg.
No.
Peanuts and tree nuts are quite different foods. However, about one-third of children with a peanut allergy will also be allergic to one or more tree nuts. Your allergist can advise on which nuts need to be avoided.
Peanut and tree nuts should be introduced along with other common allergens once your baby is ready to start solids.
Choking risk: Whole nuts should be avoided in young children. Nut pastes and well-crushed nuts can be used instead. Small amounts can be mixed in with purees that your baby is already eating.
Allergic reactions to peanut and tree nuts occur within minutes of eating them, though some may take up to 1–2 hours. Allergy to peanut or tree nuts is reproducible — symptoms occur every time your child eats the food.
Peanut and tree nut allergy is diagnosed based on the history of exposure to nuts and symptoms that occurred. Sometimes your doctor may suggest testing such as a skin prick test or blood test.
The best way to know if your child is allergic to a food or not is to try small amounts at home.
Important: If allergy testing is done prior to eating peanut or tree nuts, it may result in a false positive test that could lead to unnecessary avoidance.
Currently, multiple hospitals around Australia are running an oral immunotherapy program for infants with confirmed peanut allergy called ADAPT. Your allergist can assess your child and determine if they would be suitable for this program.
Find out more →If you suspect your child has a food allergy, see your GP. Your GP may refer you to an allergy specialist for assessment and management.
Your allergist will discuss the best way for your family to manage peanut or tree nut allergy in your child.