Coconut Coalition Launches Initiative To Remove From The. So why are coconuts on the FDA’s tree-nut allergen list? In addition to the three examples provided in section 201(qq) (almonds, pecans, and walnuts), what nuts are considered "tree nuts? (Burseraceae), Pistacia vera L. (Anacardiaceae), Vitellaria paradoxa C.F. People with allergies to certain nuts cannot eat coconuts. Tree nut allergies are on the rise and can affect those with eczema but being allergic to coconut oil does not mean you are allergic to all tree nuts. (To sign up for a free subscription to Food Safety News, click here.). Coconuts were not included in the law, but in 2006 the FDA issued a guidance document on FALCPA with a list of what the agency considered to be “tree nuts” that included coconut (Cocos nucifera). The FDA lists coconut as a tree nut. Why the change in classification? According to the FDA, coconut is a tree nut. However many individuals are not allergic to coconut and many allergists do not consider coconut a true tree nut. No harm, no foul. Regardless, in 2006, the FDA added coconut to the list of 'tree nuts'. Traci Kantowski | Apr 09, 2020 Researchers now estimate that 32 million Americans have food allergies, including 5.6 million children under 18, or 1 in 13 children. FDA classified coconut in the Big 8 Allergen groupings as a tree nut. When the FDA mandated that coconut be considered a tree nut for labeling purposes, it caused some confusion. Coconut is not a nut; it’s a part of the palm tree family, but according to recent studies performed by the FDA, people with tree nut allergies may have an allergic reaction to products that contain coconuts. Coconut has not in the past been considered a tree nut, but in 2006, the FDA began to define coconut as a tree nut. Coconut is not a major food allergen. … Tree nuts are considered to be one of the major allergens in the United States. Tree nuts, including coconuts, are classified as “major allergens” under the Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act of 2004 (FALCPA). While it is possible to be allergic to coconut, the cross reactivity for those with tree nut allergies is very rare. Coconut is not a botanical nut; it is classified as a fruit, even though the Food and Drug Administration recognizes coconut as a tree nut. “The FDA misclassified coconut, which is causing confusion for a lot of people because it shouldn’t be classified with tree nuts,” says CCA Executive Director Len Monheit. However, in October 2006, the FDA began identifying coconut as a tree nut. The Coconut Coalition Of Americas Launches Initiative To . Read about it that coconut is actually a fruit. If you're allergic to another tree nut and are interested in whether coconut could be part of your diet, discuss further testing with your allergist. coconut and nut allergies. Read about it that coconut is actually a fruit. Coconut group urges FDA to remove coconut as a 'tree nut' The Coconut Coalition of the Americas (CCA) has announced it will spearhead the effort to request that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) revise the Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act (FALCPA) guidance document to remove coconut from the list of “tree nuts” identified as a major food allergen. It’s technically a drupe, which interestingly can be classified as either a fruit, nut… If coconut is a tree nut, does that mean that it’s no longer safe for people with nut allergies? People who have tree nut allergies may be allergic to coconut as well, but being allergic to coconut is not the same as having a tree nut allergy. FDA classified coconut in the Big 8 Allergen groupings as a tree nut. When the FDA passed the Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act (FALCPA) several years ago, they included coconut on their list of tree nuts. Of note, the U.S. considers coconut, shea nut, and lychee all tree nuts—despite the fact that lychee is a fruit and a good majority of folks with a tree nut allergy can eat coconut (coconut food allergies are rare). The CCA argues that the coconut is not a major food allergen nor is it a nut. The most common-sense explanation is that the FDA’s tree-nut allergen classification is a culinary one, a broad grouping of nuts and nut-like foods. FDA is wrong – for two reasons: Coconut is not a tree nut (even though it grows on a tree and is referred to as a nut) and …. The coconut tree (Cocos nucifera) is a member of the palm tree family and the only living species of the genus Cocos. Coconut, an uncommon food allergen, is actually the fruit (seed) of coconut palm trees. But since it can be argued that it is a nut of sorts, it can be added with the other tree nuts. in A. DC. In fact, coconut is a seed of a drupaceous fruit. Coconut is not a major food allergen. It is the seed of a drupaceous fruit. But the FDA Says that Coconuts are Nuts. For that reason, most botanists classify coconuts as a fruit, not a true nut like almonds and walnuts. Despite this, coconut remains on the list, so food facilities labeling products containing coconut must … A tree nut allergy is a hypersensitivity to dietary substances from tree nuts and edible tree seeds causing an overreaction of the immune system which may lead to severe physical symptoms. FDA is wrong – for two reasons: Coconut is not a tree nut (even though it grows on a tree and is referred to as a nut) and …. The botanical distance between coconuts and tree nuts would suggest that people with a tree nut allergy should be able to tolerate coconut and studies have shown that this is generally true. Coconut is not a botanical nut; it is classified as a fruit, even though the Food and Drug Administration recognizes coconut as a tree nut. Botanically speaking, the coconut is a drupe (fruit), not a nut.Coconut can be a confusing food because it contains the word “nut” in its name. Coconut, despite the letters "nut" in the name it is not a true nut and has no relation to peanuts or tree nuts. Why the confusion? In 2006, the FDA classified coconut as a nut. However, coconuts lack many of the proteins that people with tree nut allergies are sensitive to, so many people who have tree nut allergies can safely eat coconut without having an allergic reaction (including our CEO!). (Sapotaceae), Walnut ( English, Persian, Black, Japanese, California), Heartnut, Butternut. However many individuals are not allergic to coconut and many allergists do not consider coconut a true tree nut. Dr. Linda Green answered. The FDA has just added Shea Nut and Coconut to the list of Tree Nuts in their definition for the purposed of the Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection. A study was done in assessing patients with coconut allergy and to see if they have co-sensitization to tree nuts. It’s not a mistake. From a botanic standpoint, the coconut is a fibrous one seeded drupe. My own son was diagnosed with a Peanut and Tree Nut allergy at the age of 2. that the debate will continue. …Unless you’re a botanist. Medical literature documents a small number of allergic reactions to coconut; most occurred in people who were not allergic to tree nuts. The misclassification of coconut as a tree nut causes consumer confusion and, in fact, misleads consumers with tree nut allergies who, in most cases, could safely consume products with coconuts. Then a coconut is actually a drupe – a fruit with a hard surrounding layer. Is Coconut a Tree Nut? The following are considered "tree nuts" for purposes of section 201(qq). Ask your doctor if you need to avoid coconut.” While allergic reactions to coconut have been documented, most people who are allergic to tree nuts … For a complete list of every food the FDA considers a tree nut (including coconut… Technically, coconut is not a botanical nut, but is a one seeded drupe, or a one seeded fruit. Coconut is still technically considered a fruit, but the FDA grayed those lines. Are coconuts considered tree nuts? So why are coconuts on the FDA’s tree-nut allergen list? A 51-year-old member asked: For what reasons might the coconut contain nut allergies when it's not a nut? An official website of the United States government, : Coconut was labeled a tree nut by the FDA in October of 2006. Coconut Is Not A Nut, But It Is On The Tree-Nut Allergen List Coconut, an uncommon food allergen, is actually the fruit (seed) of coconut palm trees. But the FDA confused everyone a couple of years back by adding coconut to the list of tree nut allergens…if you’re tree nut allergic, ask your doctor if coconut flour is ok for you. The Coconut Coalition, formed in 2017, launched the campaign with $25,000. According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology, many people with a tree nut allergy can safely eat coconut and coconut products. Anyone in the house? A coconut is a seed of a fruit and nutmeg is obtained from the seeds of a tropical tree. If coconut a tree nut, does that mean that it`s no longer safe for people with nut allergies? I’ve received many comments on recipes labeled as “nut-free” that contain coconut. For a complete list of every food the FDA considers a tree nut (including coconut), check out #25 on this list. In order to be comprehensive, this list employs broad scientific categories that may include a species that currently has no food use. However, coconuts lack many of the proteins that people with tree nut allergies are sensitive to, so many people who have tree nut allergies can safely eat coconut without having an allergic reaction. The Coconut Coalition sees the FDA’s 2006 decision as a mistake. But a campaign is now underway to get coconuts … Coconut is not a nut; it’s a part of the palm tree family, but according to recent studies performed by the FDA, people with tree nut allergies may have an allergic reaction to products that contain coconuts. If coconut is a tree nut, does that mean that it’s no longer safe for people with nut allergies? FDA further advises that, as with any guidance, the list may be revised consistent with the process for revising guidance documents in our regulation on good guidance practices in 21 CFR 10.115. But since it can be argued that it is a nut of sorts, it can be added with the other tree nuts. Therefore all products with coconut must make it recognizable or specifically note that tree nuts are found in the product. Your allergist can let you know whether your other test results and history make additional testing or a food challenge a reasonable next step. Top answers from doctors based on your search: Disclaimer. The Coconut Coalition of the Americas (CCA) is launching an initiative to make it clear that coconuts are not tree nut allergens. Coconut is considered a drupe, or a fruit with a hard covering over the seed. FDA is wrong – for two reasons: Coconut is not a tree nut (even though it grows on a tree and is referred to as a nut) and …. But a campaign is now underway to get coconuts off the list. Coconut and nutmeg are not considered tree nuts for the purposes of food allergen labelling in Canada and are not usually restricted from the diet of someone allergic to tree nuts. Is Coconut a Nut? But the FDA confused everyone a couple of years back by adding coconut to the list of tree nut allergens…if you’re tree nut allergic, ask your doctor if coconut flour is ok for you. To the FDA coconut is a tree nut but botanically speaking, coconuts are closely related to other palms and betel nuts. I am confuse.. Due to regulations set in place by the FDA, foods that contain allergens must specifically state this. Let’s crack open this one. While allergic reactions to coconut have been documented, most people who are allergic to tree nuts can safely eat coconut. Coconut is actually a fruit, but the US FDA classifies coconut as a tree nut. … Tree nuts are considered to be one of the major allergens in the United States. According to the FDA, coconut is a tree nut. Are coconuts safe to eat with a tree nut allergy? These nut-free snacks for kids are allergy-safe without scrimping on taste. While the FDA classifies coconut as a major tree nut allergen, a coconut allergy is very rare. Bertholletia excelsa (Lecythidaceae), Juglans cinerea (Juglandaceae), Anacardium occidentale (Anacardiaceae), Chestnut (Chinese, American, European, Seguin), Cocos nucifera L. (Arecaceae (alt. Technically, coconut is not a botanical nut, but is a one seeded drupe, or a one seeded fruit. Note that coconuts are not included! Peion fda over coconut s allergen recall due to potential tree nut a crash course on fda food allergy fda roves first treatment for kids fda identifies 16 retail locations that. Ask doctors free. There has been little guidance in patients with tree nut allergies on the safety of consuming coconut. Coconut allergy is reasonably rare. However, according to the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network , “the available medical literature contains documentation of a small number of allergic reactions to coconut; most occurred in people who were not allergic to other tree nuts. Let’s crack open this one. This can be confusing for some, as coconuts are not typically considered to be nuts and there are few instances of people being allergic to both true tree nuts and coconuts. Not Necessarily Linked to Tree Nut. The Coconut Coalition of the Americas (CCA) has announced it will spearhead the effort to request that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) revise the Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act (FALCPA) guidance document to remove coconut from the list of “tree nuts” identified as a major food allergen. However, according to the Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network, “the available medical literature contains documentation of a small number of allergic reactions to coconut; most occurred in people who were not allergic to other tree nuts. Coconut; Filbert; Ginko nut; Hazelnut; Hickory nut; Lichee nut; Macadamia nut; Nangai nut; Pecan; Pine nut; Pistachio; Shea nut; Walnut; Tree Nuts and Food Labeling. Is coconut a nut? A 2006 FDA guidance document on FALCPA includes a list of ingredients it identifies as “tree nuts” that includes coconut (Cocos nucifera). The name listed as "common or usual name" should be used to declare the specific type of nut as required by section 403(w)(2). Sapindaceae, Carya illinoensis (Juglandaceae), Canarium ovatum Engl. Tree nuts include, but are not limited to, almonds, Brazil nuts, cashews, chestnuts, filberts/hazelnuts, macadamia nuts, pecans, pistachios, shea nuts and walnuts. That is what the broo-haha is all about, and it would benefit the Coconut producers certainly. Foods containing coconut are required to be labeled with "contains tree nuts" under the Food Allergy Labeling and Consumer Protection Act (FALCPA) . Anyone in the house? Sometimes cashews are used to make butter (cashew butter), oils or pastes. It is difficult to assess the risk of coconut allergy among those with tree nut allergies because allergic individuals may become wary of coconut and avoid it. This means that ingredients considered to be tree nuts, or derivatives of such, must be called out on food product labels for consumer transparency. The foregoing list reflects FDA's current best judgment as to those nuts that are "tree nuts" within the meaning of section 201(qq). Coconut has not in the past been considered a tree nut, but in 2006, the FDA began to define coconut as a tree nut. Importantly, while the FDA treats coconut as a tree nut for labeling purposes, don’t assume restaurants treat coconuts as tree nuts. Palmae)), Ginkgo biloba L. (Ginkgoaceae), Litchi chinensis Sonn. The fact that a species falls within a scientific category on this list does not mean that the species is appropriate for food use. The https:// ensures that you are connecting to the official website and that any information you provide is encrypted and transmitted securely. “The FDA misclassified coconut, which is causing confusion for a lot of people because it shouldn’t be classified with tree nuts,” said CCA Executive Director Len Monheit. “Consumers with a tree nut allergy, but not a coconut allergy, are being deprived of this fruit. This is a good idea even if you have a history of eating coconut without a problem. Coconuts grow on trees and are called a nut, but they are not tree nuts nor are they much of an allergen. No harm, no foul. According to the FDA, coconut is a tree nut. As I mentioned to the angry reader, the ACAAI (American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology) says: Coconut is not a botanical nut; it is classified as a fruit, even though the Food and Drug Administration recognizes coconut as a tree nut. Still, coconut allergy appears rare, and uncommon even among those with tree nut allergies. The following are considered "tree nuts" for purposes of section 201(qq). However, in October of 2006, the Food and Drug Association (FDA) began identifying coconut as a tree nut. It also doesn’t mean you cannot tolerate other tree nuts. For a complete list of every food the FDA considers a tree nut (including coconut… Allergic reactions to nuts are caused by the proteins found in specific tree nuts. Is it change in the classification? An allergist (a doctor trained in allergies) would tell you that coconut is an allergen - not a common one though. Coconuts don't do that. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recognizes coconut as a tree nut, and thus an allergen that must be declared. If coconut a tree nut, does that mean that it`s no longer safe for people with nut allergies? Here is the link - question #25 lists all the tree nuts. Coconut has been classified by FDA that it a tree nut. Even the Library of Congress tackled this hot topic and concluded that the coconut can be classified as a nut, a fruit or a seed according to their loose definitions. CCA, which is based in Spring, Texas, will spearhead the effort to request that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) revise the Food Allergen Labeling Consumer Protection Act (FALCPA) Guidance Document to remove coconut from the list of tree nuts identified … If coconut is in a product, the product may state that it contains tree nuts. In fact, coconut allergy is uncommon, and studies have shown that people with tree nut allergy are at no greater risk of being allergic to coconuts. Is Coconut A Tree Nut Fda June 16, 2020. A 2006 FDA guidance document on FALCPA includes a list of ingredients it identifies as “tree nuts” that includes coconut (Cocos nucifera). Tree nuts, including coconuts, are classified as “major allergens” under the Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act of 2004 (FALCPA). Out of more than 160 foods that can cause allergic reactions in some people, the “major food allergens” are responsible for 90 percent of those reactions. And, technically, a coconut tree isn’t truly a tree either. My daughter has a tree nut allergy. In a national registry of 5,149 people with peanut or tree nut allergies, only four patients reported having an allergy to coconut. When the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classified coconut as a tree nut in 2006, folks were understandably confused. Gaertn. It seems like coconuts may be such a special and unique food (and tasty!) The coconut is a fruit and not a nut, but if the question refers to allergies then a health care professional should be consulted if there is a fear that a nut reaction may occur. However, coconuts lack many of the proteins that people with tree nut allergies are sensitive to, so many people who have tree nut allergies can safely eat coconut without having an allergic reaction. This means that all food items with coconut must be listed as containing coconut/tree nut on the ingredient label. The international Anaphylaxis Campaign is not too concerned about coconuts. Knowing how to properly read food labels is of the utmost important when it comes to avoiding food containing tree nuts. Coconut is included in the list of tree nuts by the FDA and must be clearly identified on food labels. Despite FDA classification of coconut as a tree nut, the two major U.S. allergen advocacy groups, FAAN and FARE, do not recognize coconut as a nut. Before sharing sensitive information, make sure you're on a federal government site. Is coconut a nut? This means that all food items with coconut must be listed as containing coconut/tree nut on the ingredient label. Allergic reactions to nuts are caused by the proteins found in specific tree nuts. The Texas-based Coconut Coalition of American (CCA) launched a campaign Monday to “make it clear that coconuts are not tree nut allergens.” The industry-led coalition plans to petition the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to remove the coconut from the list of “tree nuts” in the FALCPA Guidance Documents. FDA Basics for Industry, Recalls, Market Withdrawals and Safety Alerts, Product Application and Petition Review Process, For Trade and Industry Groups: Requesting Cross-Agency Speakers From FDA, Section 201(qq) of the Act defines the term "major food allergen" to include "tree nuts." Why the change in classification? If you are unsure if coconut is safe for you, ask your allergist. Coconut, the seed of a drupaceous fruit, has typically not been restricted in the diets of people with a tree nut allergy. “Consumers with a tree nut allergy, but not a coconut allergy, are being deprived of this fruit.”, Monheit also says the coconut industry has been “greatly impacted” by the unnecessary need to classify their facilities for “tree nuts.”. FDA added coconuts as a tree nut to the major food allergens list in 2006. According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, while there are some documented cases of coconut allergy, most people who are allergic to tree nuts … Is it change in the classification? A coconut is a seed of a fruit and nutmeg is obtained from the seeds of a tropical tree. Coconut is still technically considered a fruit, but the FDA grayed those lines. The .gov means it’s official.Federal government websites often end in .gov or .mil. Many tree nut allergic individuals can tolerate coconut in milk and yogurt form. ". Most people allergic to tree nuts can safely eat coconut. The site is secure. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration classifies coconuts as tree nuts. A coconut is really a SEED, not a nut. However, botanically speaking, coconut is not a tree nut. I am confuse.. (To sign up for a free subscription to Food Safety News, 30.7 tons of ready-to-eat eat and poultry escapes inspection, French Salmonella outbreak hospitalizes seven, sickens dozens, FDA posts recall for spinach already under recall in Canada for Salmonella, Kawartha Dairy brand ice cream products recalled because of pieces of metal, Letter to the Editor: A different view on new Salmonella rules, Food safety tips for pet owners to follow during holiday celebrations, Food and drug officials weigh in on federal Salmonella rules for poultry, Crustacean shellfish (e.g., crab, lobster, shrimp), Tree nuts (e.g., almonds, walnuts, pecans). Therefore there is no general recommendation that patients with a tree nut allergy should avoid coconut.”. Should I avoid coconut and nutmeg if I have a tree nut allergy? Coconut and nutmeg are not considered tree nuts for the purposes of food allergen labelling in Canada and are not usually restricted from the diet of someone allergic to tree nuts. I am not sure why you would think the USDA or FDA are experts in allergies. Take a look at this site. Coconut is not a major food allergen. 44 years experience Pediatric Allergy and Asthma. While allergic reactions to coconut have been documented, most people who are allergic to tree nuts can safely eat coconut. The available medical literature contains documentation of a small number of allergic reactions to coconut; most occurred in people who were not allergic to other tree nuts. It says it needs to raise another $80,000 over the next six months to support their petition to FDA. 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