Allergen: Tree nuts – what belongs to it, hidden sources and labelling
Tree nuts is one of the 14 allergens that must be declared under Annex II of Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011 – including for non-prepacked food at a buffet. It covers almonds, hazelnuts, walnuts. In Catering Cat the allergen has the code H.
What belongs to it?
- Almonds
- Hazelnuts
- Walnuts
- Cashews
- Pecans
- Brazil nuts
- Pistachios
- Macadamia (Queensland) nuts
- Products thereof
Where is it often hidden?
- Pesto (often with cashews or walnuts instead of pine nuts)
- Marzipan, nougat, praline, brittle
- Cakes, pastries, desserts, ice cream
- Nut oils in dressings
- Curries and Middle Eastern dishes
- Muesli and salad toppings
Exemptions under Annex II
- Nuts used for making alcoholic distillates
Tips for catering and buffets
- Name the nut, e.g. “tree nuts (hazelnuts, almonds)”.
- Pine nuts, coconut and chestnuts are not tree nuts under Annex II.
- Peanuts are a separate allergen and do not belong here.
How it appears on the buffet card
On the back of the card, the allergen is shown with its full name (“Tree nuts”), as a short name (“Nuts”) or as the code “H” with a legend – depending on the display you choose in Catering Cat.
Frequently asked questions
Which nuts must be declared?
Almonds, hazelnuts, walnuts, cashews, pecans, Brazil nuts, pistachios and macadamia nuts, and products thereof.
Are pine nuts tree nuts?
No. Pine nuts are not on the Annex II list. Pesto may contain other nuts, though – check the recipe.
All 14 allergens
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Start for freeThis page summarises the rules in general terms and is not legal advice. When in doubt, ask your local food authority.