Cashew Nut Allergy: What Parents Need to Know

Reviewed by Dr. R. Zhu, MD, FRCPC, Allergist & Clinical Immunologist

Cashews are loved for their creamy texture and rich taste, but they’re also one of the most common tree nut allergies and are classified as a priority allergen by Food Allergy Canada.

Disclaimer:
This article is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or allergist if you suspect an allergy or have concerns about introducing nuts to your child.

Table of Contents

1. What Is a Cashew?
2. Is Cashew a Tree Nut?
3. How Common Is a Cashew Nut Allergy?
4. Are You Allergic to Other Tree Nuts if You're Allergic to Cashew?
5. Does a Cashew Allergy Mean I'm Allergic to Peanut?
6. Can You Outgrow a Cashew Allergy?
7. How to Introduce Cashews Safely
8. Final Thoughts

1. What Is a Cashew?

Cashews are edible seeds from the cashew tree (Anacardium occidentale). While technically seeds, they are classified and consumed as nuts due to their nutritional profile and culinary versatility. Cashews are high in:

• Healthy fats
• Protein
• Vitamin E and B vitamins
• Minerals such as magnesium and zinc

2. Is Cashew a Tree Nut?

Yes. Cashews are part of the tree nut family, which also includes pistachios, almonds, walnuts, pecans, hazelnuts, Brazil nuts, macadamia nuts, and pine nuts.

Learn more about different tree nut allergies ➝

3. How Common Is a Cashew Nut Allergy?

Tree nuts (including cashew) are a priority food allergen in Canada, responsible for over 90% of reported allergic reactions to foods. Among tree nuts, cashew and pistachio allergies are among the most common.

4. Are You Allergic to Other Tree Nuts if You're Allergic to Cashew?

Not necessarily. However, cashew and pistachio belong to the same botanical family (Anacardiaceae), so there is a strong likelihood that those allergic to cashews would also be allergic to pistachios. If you are allergic to cashew and/or pistachio, there is an increased risk of developing other tree nut allergies as well. Consult your primary care provider or allergist if you are unsure or have questions.

5. Does a Cashew Allergy Mean I'm Allergic to Peanut?

No. Peanuts are legumes, not tree nuts, and there is little cross-reactivity between them. Many people with a cashew allergy can safely consume peanuts, but always consult with an allergist if you are unsure.

6. Can You Outgrow a Cashew Allergy?

Unlike milk or egg allergies, most tree nut allergies (including cashew) tend to persist throughout life. Studies suggest only about 10–15% of children eventually outgrow a tree nut allergy.

7. How to Introduce Cashews Safely

Early introduction of allergenic foods, including tree nuts, may help support tolerance when done safely. For babies, cashews should never be offered whole due to choking risk. Instead, you can use:

• Finely ground cashews mixed into smooth purees
• Cashew powders (supports both cashew and pistachio due to their similarity) designed for infant introduction
  

Always discuss with your healthcare provider before introducing cashews if your child has severe eczema, egg allergy, or a known food allergy.

Explore our tree nut early introduction kit to help introduce tree nuts stress free ➝

8. Final Thoughts

Cashew nut allergy is a significant concern for many families and is a priority allergen in Canada. While closely related to pistachios, cashews are not related to peanuts, and many people can tolerate other tree nuts.

Early, informed introduction can play an important role in supporting tolerance, but safety must always come first. For personalized guidance, consult your health care provider or allergist.

References & Further Reading
Food Allergy Canada – Tree Nuts
Food Allergy Canada - Eat Early, Eat Often