Understanding Why People with Peanut Allergies Can Still Eat Peanut Oil

At My Dad’s Chips, we know that food allergies are a serious concern, and we want everyone to snack safely! One common question we get is: “If I have a peanut allergy, can I still eat chips cooked in peanut oil?” The answer might surprise you—many people with peanut allergies can still eat peanut oil without any issues.

Let’s break down why this is the case and what makes peanut oil different from whole peanuts when it comes to allergies.

Understanding Peanut Allergies

A peanut allergy happens when the immune system reacts to certain proteins found in peanuts. These proteins can trigger anything from mild itching to severe allergic reactions.

But here’s the key: highly refined peanut oil doesn’t contain these allergenic proteins. That’s why most people with peanut allergies can still eat peanut oil safely—because the proteins that cause allergic reactions are removed during processing.

Why Peanut Oil Is Usually Safe

Not all peanut oils are the same! The type of oil used in cooking and frying makes all the difference.

1. Highly Refined Peanut Oil – This type of oil goes through a strict purification process that removes almost all peanut proteins. Because of this, many people with peanut allergies can still eat peanut oil without a reaction. In fact, the FDA does not require highly refined peanut oil to be labeled as an allergen.

2. Cold-Pressed or Unrefined Peanut Oil – This type of peanut oil is less processed and may still contain peanut proteins. If you have a peanut allergy, it’s best to avoid unrefined peanut oil, as it could trigger a reaction.

   
   

Cross-Contamination and Safety

Even though many people with peanut allergies can still eat peanut oil, there is always a small risk of cross-contamination. If peanut oil is processed in a facility that also handles whole peanuts, tiny traces of peanut proteins could still be present. That’s why it’s always a good idea to read labels and consult a doctor if you’re unsure.

Every Allergy Is Different

While studies show that highly refined peanut oil is safe for most people with peanut allergies, everyone’s body reacts differently. If you have a peanut allergy, always check with your doctor before trying peanut oil.

Now That You Understand Why People with Peanut Allergies Can Still Eat Peanut Oil, You Can Snack Safely!

At My Dad’s Chips, we’re all about creating delicious, high-quality snacks that everyone can enjoy. While we don’t use peanut oil in our chips, we know how important it is for our customers to have clear and accurate information about food allergies. The bottom line? Highly refined peanut oil doesn’t contain the proteins that cause peanut allergies, which is why many people with peanut allergies can still eat peanut oil. However, always check labels, be cautious, and talk to your doctor if you have concerns.

Looking for a peanut-free snack? Grab a bag of My Dad’s Chips and crunch away with confidence!