Understanding Peanut Sensitivity and Allergy

Peanut allergy is one of the most common and dangerous food allergies worldwide. For some, even trace amounts of peanuts can trigger life-threatening reactions, while others experience mild digestive or skin issues known as peanut sensitivity. Unlike peanut intolerance, which usually causes discomfort, a true peanut allergy involves the immune system and can lead to anaphylaxis.

Since peanuts are widely used in processed foods, sauces, and baked goods, avoiding them requires constant vigilance. This guide explores symptoms, hidden sources, safe alternatives, and how AI tools like Food Scan Genius can help you stay safe.

Symptoms of Peanut Sensitivity and Allergy

Peanut reactions can occur within minutes of consumption and range from mild to severe. Common symptoms include:

• Itchy mouth, lips, or throat
• Swelling of the tongue, lips, or face
• Hives, eczema, or skin redness
• Stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting
• Difficulty breathing or wheezing
• Dizziness or loss of consciousness in severe cases

Important: Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency. If you suspect a severe reaction, seek immediate help and use prescribed medication such as epinephrine (EpiPen).

Hidden Sources of Peanuts

Peanuts aren’t just found in peanut butter. They hide in many packaged foods, often under different names. Be cautious with:

• Baked goods like cookies, brownies, and cakes
• Candies and chocolates (cross-contamination risk)
• Granola bars and trail mixes
• Sauces such as satay, mole, or Asian stir-fry sauces
• Vegetarian meat substitutes and protein bars
• Snack foods like chips, crackers, and popcorn
• Ice creams and frozen desserts

Reading every label is essential. With Food Scan Genius, you can instantly scan products and know if peanuts are present — including hidden forms.

Peanut Cross-Contamination Risks

Even when peanuts aren’t listed, cross-contamination can occur in factories, restaurants, and bakeries. Labels may include warnings such as:

• “May contain peanuts”
• “Processed in a facility that also processes peanuts”
• “Made on shared equipment with peanuts”

For people with severe peanut allergy, even trace exposure can be harmful. Always double-check packaging and avoid products with uncertain labeling.

Peanuts in Global Cuisine

Peanuts are popular in many cultural dishes. Awareness is key when dining out:

• Asian cuisines: Satay sauces, stir-fries, curries, and peanut oils
• African cuisines: Groundnut stews and soups
• Latin American cuisines: Mole sauces and snacks
• Western cuisines: Peanut butter spreads, desserts, and candies

Always notify restaurants of your allergy and ask about ingredients, sauces, and garnishes.

Safe Alternatives to Peanuts

You don’t need to miss out on flavor or nutrition. Try these safe swaps:

• Almond butter (if no tree nut allergy)
• Sunflower seed butter – nut-free and safe for most
• Soy nut butter – made from roasted soybeans
• Chickpea butter – growing in popularity as a nut-free spread
• Roasted pumpkin seeds – crunchy snack alternative

These substitutes provide similar texture and taste without the risks of peanuts.

How Food Scan Genius Helps with Peanut Sensitivity

Managing peanut sensitivity or allergy can be overwhelming. That’s where AI can help. With Food Scan Genius, you can:

• Scan packaged foods instantly to detect peanut ingredients
• Get AI-driven safe food alternatives tailored to your diet
• Personalize your profile if you also have multiple sensitivities (milk, gluten, soy, etc.)
• Shop with confidence, both online and offline

Download Food Scan Genius and let AI simplify safe eating.

Living with Peanut Sensitivity: Practical Tips

Staying peanut-free is a daily commitment. Here are proven strategies:

• Read every label – manufacturers change recipes often.
• Carry safe snacks – avoid impulse eating when options are limited.
• Inform schools and caregivers – children with peanut allergy need special supervision.
• Be prepared – always carry your prescribed medication (EpiPen).
• Use tech wisely – apps like Food Scan Genius take the guesswork out of shopping.

FAQs about Peanut Sensitivity & Allergy

Stay Safe with Peanut Sensitivity

Living peanut-free is possible with the right tools and awareness. Download Food Scan Genius today and take control of your food safety with AI-powered confidence.