If you suffer from a peanut allergy or know some one that does, there is no question that you avoid foods containing peanuts. However, have you considered looking at non food products as well?
Current US FDA labeling laws apply to food products only. This means that peanuts or peanut oil can be found in non food products and not be listed as an ingredient. Following is a list of items that you should look out for.
Self Care
Some cosmetics and other self care products like soaps, shampoos and lotions can contain peanut or tree nut ingredients. Often times they are listed in the ingredients but sometimes they are not. An obvious key indicator would be any item that says it is made with oils, almonds, or nut butters. If you have any concerns contact the manufacturer and ask.
Garden and Home Items
Some potting soils, mulches and bird seed contains peanut shells. Cleaning products can also contain peanut oil, and ant baits may contain peanut ingredients. Be sure to check the ingredient label and call the manufacturer if you are unsure.
Keep in mind that peanut oil is often so refined that many individuals do not develop an allergic reaction. However, some do. If you notice a rash, hives or any other allergic symptoms after using a product--you should stop using it.
The following link is a more comprehensive list of items that may contain peanuts:
http://www.bestallergysites.com/news/unusual-and-unexpected-sources-of-p...
__________________
Ruth LovettSmith
Founder of http://www.bestallergysites.com/
Your Food Allergy and Gluten Free Guide, and the largest Internet directory of allergy related companies, sites, and blogs.
Disclaimer: I'm a food allergy advocate and mom of a food allergic child. I am NOT an allergist. My comments are based on my research and experiences. Please speak to your doctor regarding medical concerns.
I tell you when my son was
I tell you when my son was diagnosed with a PA/TNA 11 yrs ago I quickly realized how many non-food items contain Peanuts and/or tree nuts. People just don't think about it, but coming to the end of a school year that was filled with lack of awareness and education on the matter I am finding increasing frustration for my family so I returned to the website for some help and thankfully I found your posts. I truly appreciate all the work that you have put in to PA/TNA world. I have found it very helpful.
Thank you
Don't use Weiman Granite or
Don't use Weiman Granite or leather cleaners -- they contains peanut oil. My 14-year-old daughter is severely allergic to peanuts and tree nuts. She had an allergic reaction to Weiman Granite Cleaner (sold at Walmart and other stores) -- the label didn't list the ingredients, and when I called the manufacturer, they said they use peanut oil in it. They also use it in their leather cleaner.
OMG...I have that above my
OMG...I have that above my stove I think...just used it. Thanks for checking.
My 15 mo. old son had a
My 15 mo. old son had a severe reaction to peanuts after my friend, who had sun tan oil on with peanut oil in the ingredients, picked him up at the beach. People don't realize peanuts are everywhere.