Symptoms of hazelnut allergy include skin reactions such as rashes, itching, and hives; respiratory symptoms like shortness of breath, nasal congestion, and wheezing; gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal pain and nausea; and in severe cases, anaphylaxis, which requires urgent medical intervention.

Avoid foods containing hazelnuts, including Nutella, pralines, and mixed nut blends. Hazelnut flavoring is also common in chocolate spreads and desserts. Carefully read labels for any tree nut derivatives. Source: Food Allergy Research & Education

Hazelnut allergy is common among tree nut allergies and is frequently seen in individuals with broader nut sensitivities. It is particularly common in regions where hazelnuts are widely consumed. Source: American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology

Based on our experience at NYFA, we recommend checking for tree pollen allergy based on a patient’s history. Many “hazelnut allergic” patients are sensitized to hazelnut protein due to pollen allergies and do not have a true hazelnut allergy.

Foods high in hazelnuts include hazelnut spreads like Nutella, chocolates with nuts, and pralines. Hazelnuts may also be present in nut-based granolas and baked goods. Source: Food Allergy Research & Education

Hazelnuts can be hidden in chocolate, bakery products, and foods made in facilities that handle multiple types of nuts. Look for terms like “natural flavors,” which can sometimes indicate nut derivatives. Source: American Academy of Pediatrics

An accurate diagnosis of hazelnut allergy is essential before any treatment. Tree pollen allergic individuals may require treatment for pollen allergy rather than hazelnut itself. For those with true hazelnut allergy, identifying other tree nut allergies is important to maximize the benefit of treatment options.

The best treatment for hazelnut allergies involves avoidance, preparation for emergencies, and desensitization therapies like Oral Immunotherapy (OIT) and Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT). NYFA provides individualized desensitization options as part of the FATE™ Program, offering safe and structured hazelnut exposure therapy to improve tolerance and minimize reactions.

Desensitization therapies for hazelnut allergies, particularly OIT and SLIT, have shown strong success in reducing allergic reactions and improving safety. These approaches gradually increase exposure to hazelnut proteins in a controlled setting, allowing many patients to tolerate higher amounts over time.

At NYFA, the FATE™ Program has helped numerous patients achieve increased tolerance, enabling them to live more confidently despite their hazelnut allergy. For patients with multiple tree nut allergies, we often combine multiple tree nuts in SLIT and OIT and design the most efficient management plan for their specific profile.

NYFA is an excellent choice for hazelnut allergy care because of our:

Specialized expertise: Dr. Atul Shah is a recognized authority in the treatment of food allergies, including hazelnuts.
Advanced therapies: We utilize the latest treatment options such as Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT), Oral Immunotherapy (OIT), and biologics like omalizumab (Xolair) when appropriate.
Comprehensive care approach: Individualized care plans and ongoing support help patients manage hazelnut allergy safely and effectively.
Cutting edge facilities: Our clinic is equipped with state of the art diagnostic equipment to deliver accurate and comprehensive testing.