Nut Allergy? Try These Swaps

Medically Reviewed by Christine Mikstas, RD, LD on August 12, 2022
1 min read

Are nuts off your snack list because of allergies? 

Nut allergy can include tree nuts such as walnuts, almonds, hazelnuts, cashews, and Brazil nuts. Peanuts that are grown underground are technically not a nut but a legume and still often trigger an allergic reaction. Some people have an allergy to both tree nuts or peanuts, so check with your doctor to be sure. Whether you are allergic to either or both, these crunchy, savory treats could work for you instead.

A word of caution -- if you or your child has severe allergies, talk to your doctor before you try one of these products. You might have problems with more than one food. You may need to avoid all nuts to be safe.

Sunflower seed butter or soy nut butter can stand in for peanut butter if you don’t have an allergy to either alternative. Just make sure they’re truly nut-free. Some companies use the same machines to make products with and without nuts. Read the ingredients label to check.

Hummus is made from chickpeas, so, like peanut butter, it’s also a good source of protein. But some people with peanut allergies may also be allergic to chickpeas.

Sunflower seeds or soy nuts (dried soybeans) may be good options if you're looking for a little crunch. Talk to the doctor before you give them to a child with nut allergies.