Almonds

Phadia’s F20 test is used to detect blood levels of the IgE (antibodies) responsible for allergic reactions to almonds. The IgE detected in the test may be almond-specific or involved in multiple allergies with peanuts or with other nuts (walnuts, Brazil nuts, hazelnuts, etc.). The interpretation chart accompanying the result expresses the probability of an allergic reaction to almonds, but not necessarily the severity of the reaction. Case history (symptoms, relation to meals, snacks, etc.) and clinical examination by the physician are essential for a reliable interpretation of the results.

An anti-almond IgE result (< 0.35 kU/L) indicates that almonds are probably not responsible for the symptoms reported by the person, but it DOES NOT COMPLETELY RULE OUT THIS POSSIBILITY. All negative and positive results must be interpreted in light of the case history. The double-blind oral food challenge remains the definitive technique for confirming a food allergy. In most cases, allergies to almonds and other nuts are persistent, but it has been shown that some people may get over them.