As a nut allergy sufferer, you may believe you understand the importance of being careful with everything you eat, but how careful are you with what you drink? Many consumers are unaware that many alcoholic beverages include peanuts and other tree nuts. Continue reading to discover more about them and how to avoid being a victim. Make an appointment with Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology Medical Group at 805-658-9500 if you have this or another type of food allergy and want professional advice.
A firm that makes food with nuts, or that is manufactured in a facility that works with nuts, is required by the FDA to declare this information on the package, according to a number of requirements. When it comes to alcoholic beverages, there is no such need.
Nut flavorings are now used in some alcoholic beverages, but they are not controlled by labeling rules. As a result, you may need to contact the producer directly to determine whether or not specific liquors or components include nuts. “Natural flavoring,” for example, might readily incorporate nuts. Today, winemakers, distillers, and brewers can include food allergies in their goods voluntarily, but they are not obligated to do so.
Many beverages, such as bottled coffee drinks, will include a label that includes nutritional information as well as the majority of the ingredients, which should contain the most common allergies. Your alcoholic beverage, on the other hand, is unlikely to contain the same labeling. Although the maker of an alcoholic beverage may post the ingredients on their website, they are not compelled to do so.
You most likely discovered what you’re allergic to during your food allergy testing. Cross contamination with beverages must be considered in the same way that you would not presume a slice of bread without nuts was manufactured without nuts. This is particularly true in the case of a mixed drink. One suggestion is to omit the garnish entirely. Why? Because typical garnishes like maraschino cherries are frequently processed or flavored with almond essence.
This is not an exhaustive list, and not all of these liquors will necessarily include nuts. These are the sorts, however, that you should pay special attention to: Amaretto Noyaux Crème, Frangelico Galliano, Noix Crème, Royale Kahana, Nocello, Beefeater, Bombay Sapphire, Phillips, Harp Lager Southern Comfort, Eblana, and Nocino
If you’re not sure if you’re allergic to nuts or have another form of food allergy, we strongly advise you to be tested for food allergies as soon as possible. To schedule an appointment, just call Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology Medical Group at 805-658-9500.