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Allergen Guide

🇺🇸 Tree Nuts Allergen in US

Tree Nuts (Almonds, hazelnuts, walnuts, etc.) is a regulated major allergen in US that must be clearly declared. FDA's 2025 allergen guidance narrowed the US tree-nut list — coconut is no longer treated as a tree nut — and each tree nut species must be named individually.

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What the Rule Is

Tree Nuts must be declared on food labels in United States as a regulated allergen. This includes the allergen itself and any derivatives. FALCPA (2004) and the FASTER Act (2021) define 9 major allergens — milk, eggs, fish, crustacean shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, soybeans, and sesame (mandatory since 1 January 2023). Each must be declared either in parentheses in the ingredient list or in a "Contains" statement, and tree nut species must be named individually.

What You Must Include
  • Clear declaration of "Tree Nuts" or specific derivative names
  • Proper emphasis in the ingredients list
  • Declaration of processing aids containing the allergen
Common Violations
  • Using scientific names without the common name "Tree Nuts"
  • Missing hidden sources in compound ingredients
  • Insufficient emphasis in ingredients list
Examples: Compliant vs Non-Compliant

Compliant Examples

Ingredients: Flour, **Tree Nuts**, Sugar

Non-Compliant Examples

Ingredients: Flour, Tree Nuts, Sugar (no emphasis)
How LabelGuard Checks This

LabelGuard scans your label for tree nuts and all its derivatives including: Almonds, Hazelnuts, Walnuts, Cashews, Pecans.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What ingredients contain hidden tree nuts?

Common hidden sources include: Almonds, Hazelnuts, Walnuts, Cashews, Pecans, Macadamia, Brazil nuts.

Is tree nuts one of the major allergens in US?

Yes, tree nuts is a regulated major allergen in US that must be declared. FDA's 2025 allergen guidance narrowed the US tree-nut list — coconut is no longer treated as a tree nut — and each tree nut species must be named individually.

How are allergens required to be declared in US?

FALCPA (2004) and the FASTER Act (2021) define 9 major allergens — milk, eggs, fish, crustacean shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, soybeans, and sesame (mandatory since 1 January 2023). Each must be declared either in parentheses in the ingredient list or in a "Contains" statement, and tree nut species must be named individually.

Regulation Sources

Last updated: 2026-07-20

Disclaimer: This information is for guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult official regulations and seek professional legal advice for specific compliance questions.

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