If a peanut is technically not a nut....?

Question

If a peanut is technically not a nut, then why are people with "Nut allergies" also allergic to peanuts?

Answer 1

Well, if you are allergic to peanuts, then you are allergic to peanuts. A lot of people consider a peanut to be a nut. I know it is actually a legume...but it is usually clumped in with nuts. Some people are allergic to peanuts AND treenuts. It's just easier to say nut allergies because a lot of people don't understand. (or care, as sad as that is!)

Answer 2

Because, quite a bit of the time, if you are allergic to one than you are allergic to the other. Also, processed tree nuts are normally processed with peanuts so you have a HIGH risk of cross contamination.

Answer 3

its not a nut....but just because you are allergic to peanuts and other nuts doesnt make peanuts a nut. If it is a nut then it is..if its not then its not....and in this case, its not....if they are allergic to peanuts and other nuts..then its their allergic reactions...has nothing to do with peanuts being a nut or not.....

Answer 4

The crossover isn't that great. I know lots of people who are allergic to peanuts, but not other nuts.

Ultimately, peanuts are very similar to nuts in their chemical composition and other properties, hence the name.

Answer 5

Well, in most case they are allergic to BOTH nut and peanut. And well, most people just don't wanna risk it.

Answer 6

They aren't, I am allergic to peanuts and I am sensitive to soybeans. Both are legumes. I can eat all the cashews, almonds, and pistachios I want, though. I just have to watch and make sure they arn't roasted in "peanut oil" or processed in a plant that processes peanuts.