Cashew Nuts May Trigger Severe Allergic Reactions in Children

Scientists from Berlin’s Charité Clinic have identified a concerning trend: cashew nuts are increasingly becoming a common cause of severe allergic reactions in children. The study, published in the journal Allergy, is based on data from the European Anaphylaxis Registry spanning 2007 to 2024.

Among 5,945 recorded cases of food allergies, 1,389 were linked to tree nuts. In the pediatric group, cashews topped the list for severe reactions, with 334 reported cases of anaphylaxis — surpassing hazelnuts (211 cases) and walnuts (146). Alarmingly, serious symptoms often occurred even after the ingestion of a very small amount of cashew — less than a teaspoon.

Most affected individuals were unaware of their allergy beforehand — only 23% of children and 21% of adults had prior knowledge of a possible reaction. The primary emergency treatment for anaphylaxis — administration of adrenaline — was rarely used: just in 13% of pediatric cases and 3% of adult cases. This rate increased to 40% only when medical professionals were involved.

The authors emphasize that the frequency of severe reactions to cashews in children is continuing to rise, and the nut has now become one of the most dangerous allergens in its category.

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