The Association of Allergists and Immunologists of Québec
Peanut Allergy
The peanut is one of the most common food allergens. About 1% of the population has a peanut allergy.
Is the peanut a nut?
The peanut is part of the legume family and not part of the nut family. Although many people allergic to peanuts are not allergic to nuts, a certain number of people are allergic to both. Even though the peanut is part of the legume family, the majority of people with a peanut allergy tolerate other legumes (lentils, peas, beans, etc.).
How does one avoid peanuts?
As for most other food allergies, treatment always begins with avoidance. In addition to informing those around you and taking precautions to avoid contamination, you must attentively read all food labels, since the peanut protein can be found in many different foods. Other names may be used to designate peanut: arachides, cacahuètes, Goober nuts, mani, mandelona, valencia, etc. (see the site of the Canadian Food Inspection Agency for a more exhaustive list).
What is the evolution of a peanut allergy?
In the majority of cases, allergy to peanuts is persistent and lifelong. Typically studies have shown that about 20% of children may lose their allergy to peanuts over time.
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