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Safe Snacks for Tree Nut Allergies

A tree nut allergy can make a hassle out of something as simple as snack time; many foods contain nuts or came into contact with them during production. Despite the fact that many products are deemed unsafe for persons with tree nut allergies, there are still a variety of tasty, healthy snacks that are nut-free. As a general rule, however, you should still always carefully check labels to be sure a food item is safe.

  1. Quick Mixes

    • Store-bought trail mixes are fast and convenient snacks for people on the go, but they tend to contain nut products that make them inedible for a person with a tree nut allergy. However, you can make your own custom trail mix right at home for a safe, simple and tasty alternative. Some items you could throw into the mix could include dried fruits like apricots, nut-free granola, nut-free chocolate chips and pumpkin or sunflower seeds. Customize the trail mix any way you like, and make a batch big enough to last you the week so you can conveniently grab it and go.

    Dippers

    • Dippers are an easy snack item that typically require very little prep time and can be created from a range of nut-free products. For instance, pita bread triangles make for a tasty, tree nut allergy-friendly snack that can be dipped in things like hummus; if you are concerned about a sesame allergy, you can make your own hummus without tahini. You could also slice up some fresh vegetables like celery, carrots and broccoli and dip them into cream cheese or salad dressing, or you could slice up fresh fruits like apples to dip into caramel sauce. Other nut-free dippable items could include pretzel rods, rice cakes and cheeses, but as with other manufactured items, it's a good idea to double-check the ingredient labels for safety.

    Baked Goods

    • Purchasing baked goods like cookies from a store or bakery can be a tricky process for persons with tree nut allergies because many of the items come with confusing or insufficient information. Instead of relying on premanufactured goods, make your own at home so you can be in control of exactly what goes into the recipe, as well as to be sure no cross-contamination occurs. There are nut-free mixes available in most health food stores, but you can also make other items that don't require a mix, like marshmallow rice crispy squares or oatmeal raisin cookies.

    Frozen Treats

    • Tree nut allergies can make it difficult to enjoy frozen treats, as cross-contamination is a common problem in ice cream parlors. There are a variety of nut-free frozen treats you can make right at home, however, for a chilly, tasty snack. For instance, most yogurt varieties (with the exception of soy-based blends) are okay for persons with tree nut allergies to consume, so stick your favorite flavors in the freezer for some convenient yogurt pops. You can also freeze fresh fruit skewers for a healthy take on a Popsicle, or blend up some fresh fruit smoothies for a refreshing snack time beverage.

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