New FDA Tree Nut List Allergens

17 Jan New FDA Tree Nut List Allergens

The Comprehensive Guide to the FDA’s Tree Nut List

Tree nuts are a common allergen and are regulated as such by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). To ensure compliance with food labeling regulations and protect consumers with allergies, it is essential for food manufacturers, restaurants, and consumers to understand the FDA’s tree nut list.

What Are Tree Nuts?

Tree nuts are seeds or fruits that grow on trees and are distinct from peanuts, which are legumes. Tree nuts are a significant source of allergens and must be declared on food labels if present in any quantity.

The FDA’s List of Major Tree Nuts

The FDA’s guidance includes the following tree nuts, which must be identified when included in foods:

1. Almonds
2. Brazil nuts
3. Cashews
4. Chestnuts
5. Hazelnuts (also known as filberts)
6. Macadamia nuts
7. Pecans
8. Pine nuts (also known as pignolias)
9. Pistachios
10. Shea nuts
11. Walnuts

Are Coconuts Tree Nuts?

Coconuts were removed as a tree nut from the list per the FDA

Updates to the FDA Tree Nut List

The FDA has recently revised its tree nut list, quietly removing several items, including coconut, in its updated labeling guidance. This change may affect allergen “contains” statements on your products. Food manufacturers are advised to carefully review the updated guidance to ensure compliance and make necessary revisions to allergen declarations.

Why Is This List Important?

Food allergens can cause severe reactions, including anaphylaxis, a life-threatening condition. Clear and accurate labeling helps consumers with tree nut allergies avoid harmful exposure. Under the Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act (FALCPA), tree nuts must be declared in plain language on packaged foods sold in the U.S.

Cross-Contamination Concerns

Even trace amounts of tree nuts can trigger allergic reactions. For this reason, manufacturers must implement stringent cross-contact prevention measures in facilities handling tree nuts.

Labeling Requirements

• Ingredient List: Tree nuts must be identified by their common name in the ingredient list.
• “Contains” Statement: If a product includes tree nuts, a “Contains” statement must specify the type, e.g., “Contains: Almonds, Walnuts.”

Common Tree Nut Applications in Food

Tree nuts are used in:

• Baked goods
• Confections and desserts
• Dairy alternatives (e.g., almond milk)
• Sauces and marinades
• Nut flours and butters

Understanding and adhering to the FDA’s tree nut list is critical for ensuring consumer safety and regulatory compliance. By staying informed, food manufacturers can build trust with consumers and help protect those with allergies.

For more guidance on FDA compliance and food allergen regulations, reach out to our team of food scientists