A “nut-free” diet or food product refers to items that do not contain any nuts or nut-derived ingredients. Nuts, such as peanuts, almonds, cashews, walnuts, pecans, hazelnuts, and pistachios, are common allergens, and individuals with nut allergies must avoid them to prevent adverse reactions.
Nut-free foods and diets are crucial for individuals with nut allergies to avoid allergic reactions, which can range from mild symptoms like itching and hives to severe reactions such as anaphylaxis, a life-threatening condition.
In addition to whole nuts, nut-derived ingredients and products such as nut butters, nut oils, and nut flours must also be avoided by individuals with nut allergies. Therefore, nut-free foods are often prepared in facilities that do not process nuts and are labeled clearly to indicate their nut-free status.