If you have any food allergy, you already know which products to avoid in every meal you consume. But what are the differences in some of these ingredients, and which ones are safe to consume?

Is peanut oil safe for me with a peanut allergy?

Peanut oil is usually safe for those with peanut allergies, because the allergy is caused by a reaction to peanut protein, and peanut oil does not have this protein.

What is the difference between refined and unrefined peanut oil?

Refined peanut oil has been through a long process that takes out the allergen, which makes it useful for cooking. Meanwhile, unrefined peanut oil has peanut protein in it and must be avoided by those with a peanut allergy. This type of oil is primarily used in salad dressing or sauce, unlike cooking peanut oil.

Some restaurants like Five Guys cook with peanut oil but also have peanuts available throughout the restaurant. Is this an issue?

The allergen risk here would come from cross-contamination with peanuts, rather than from the peanut oil. If you have a peanut allergy, you should alert the restaurant staff to ensure your food doesn’t come into contact with peanuts and to avoid cross-contamination.

What are some common peanut allergy symptoms if I consume peanut oil?

Highly refined peanut oil typically does not cause a reaction. However, unrefined peanut oil will taste like peanut and can cause a mild or severe allergic reaction. Symptoms would include a rash, itchy sensation, swelling, sore throat, cough, congestion, difficulty breathing, abdominal pain or vomiting.

Which fast food restaurants are safest for those with peanut allergies?

The fast food restaurants for someone with a peanut allergy to eat at include McDonald’s, Taco Bell, Wendy’s, Cava, Chipotle, Qdoba, Subway, Burger King, Domino’s, Dunkin’ Donuts and Raising Canes.