The Ultimate Guide to Peanut and Tree Nut-Free Snacks for Kids

The prevalence of peanut and tree nut allergies in children is a growing concern, with recent studies highlighting the increasing rates of these allergies. According to Whitsel et al. (2021), an estimated 1 million children are affected by peanut and tree nut allergies. Ewan (1996) notes that sensitization to peanuts often occurs in very young children, and there is a trend towards multiple peanut/nut allergies developing progressively. This is a significant health consideration, as infants with peanut allergies are at a heightened risk of developing tree nut allergies. McWilliam et al. (2023) found that up to 40% of children with a peanut allergy develop one or more tree nut allergies by the age of 6. Furthermore, Clark & Ewan (2005) report that 32% of peanut-allergic children are sensitized to tree nuts, with 21% exhibiting clinical allergies. These statistics underscore the importance of awareness and caution in dietary choices for children with these allergies.

In light of these challenges, finding safe and enjoyable snacks for children with peanut and tree nut allergies is more crucial than ever. Our goal is to provide parents and caregivers with a comprehensive guide to allergy-friendly snacks. This includes not only ready-to-eat options like candies, cupcakes, and ice creams but also snacks that require a bit of preparation, such as popcorn, cereal, and cookie dough. We understand the importance of ensuring these snacks are not only safe but also delicious and appealing to children.

Striving for succinctness and objective clarity, each product in our guide is meticulously detailed, including essential information like the manufacturing facility’s adherence to peanut and tree nut-free standards, certifications as stated on packaging, and international availability. Specific notes pertinent to each item are also provided to ensure informed choices. To further assist in making the best selections for your needs, the guide culminates in a 'Key Takeaways' section. This offers a quick-reference list, especially tailored for those with additional dietary needs. Moreover, to enhance understanding and address common queries, a concise FAQ section is included, focusing on pertinent questions related to the chocolates featured in this guide and other popular varieties.

Ready-to-Eat Snacks

Candy

Candies are a delightful treat for both kids and adults, and finding safe options is crucial for those with nut allergies. Following selection, ranging from lollipops and gummies to fruit chews, ensures a worry-free indulgence. For more options, particularly peanut and tree nut-free candies, see our detailed guide in a previous post.

Gummies

Gummies are a fun and fruity snack, and these nut-free options mean everyone can enjoy them without concern.

Yumearth Mixed Fruit Gummy Bears

• Peanut Free Facility: Yes
• Nut Free Facility: Yes
• Claims: No Artificial Colours
• Availability: Canada, USA
• Notes: 10 Individual Snack packs in each bag. Contains Strawberry, Cherry, Mango and Peach flavoured Gummies.

Go Bio Vegan Gummi Bears

• Claims: Fat free, No Artificial Flavorings, No Synthetic Colours
• Certifications: Certified Non-GMO, Certified Organic
• Availability: Canada
• Notes: Lemon, blackcurrant, orange, apple, raspberry, pineapple flavours in each bag.

Butter Filled Cups

Discover the richness of butter-filled cups, crafted to be completely nut-free, ensuring a safe, creamy delight for all.

Free2b Chocolate Sunflower Butter Mini Cups

• Peanut Free Facility: Yes
• Nut Free Facility: Yes
• Claims: Vegan
• Certifications: Certified Gluten Free, Certified Kosher, Certified Non-GMO
• Availability: Canada, USA
• Notes: Similar to Reese's Peanut Butter cups but free from peanut butter. Instead, each chocolate cup contains sunflower butter. Manufactured in a top 10 allergen-free facility.

Lollipop

These lollipops, free from nuts, offer a colorful and safe choice for a quick sweet treat.

Kerr's Great North Pops

• Claims: Vegan
• Certifications: Certified Kosher
• Availability: Canada, USA
• Notes: Seven different flavours of lolly pops in one bag. Canadian flavours.

Cupcakes

Whether it's a school event or a birthday party, these peanut and tree nut-free cupcakes ensure everyone can join in the celebration without dietary worries.

Chocolate

SchoolSafe Creamy Chocolate Mini Cupcakes

• Peanut Free Facility: Yes
• Nut Free Facility: Yes
• Claims: Vegetarian
• Certifications: Certified Kosher
• Availability: Canada, USA

Vanilla

Two-Bite Vanilla Cupcakes

• Peanut Free Facility: Yes
• Nut Free Facility: Yes
• Certifications: Certified Kosher
• Availability: Canada, USA, UK

Cakes

Nothing pairs better with a glass of milk or milk alternatives than cookies. These nut-free and tree nut-free cookie range proves that safety and deliciousness can coexist.

Sweets From The Earth Cookies and Cream Cake

• Peanut Free Facility: Yes
• Nut Free Facility: Yes
• Claims: Certified Vegan, Plant Based
• Certifications: Certified Halal, Certified Kosher
• Availability: Canada
• Notes: Large 1.5 Kg size. Good for big celebrations.

Sweets From The Earth Smores Cake

• Peanut Free Facility: Yes
• Nut Free Facility: Yes
• Claims: Certified Vegan, Plant Based
• Certifications: Certified Halal, Certified Kosher
• Availability: Canada
• Notes: 1.5 Kg size. Good for large gatherings.

Muffins

A versatile baked favorite. Ideal for a quick breakfast, snack, or dessert, they provide a convenient and satisfying option for those seeking a sweet, portable treat.

Sweets From The Earth Banana Chocolate Chip Muffin

• Peanut Free Facility: Yes
• Nut Free Facility: Yes
• Claims: Certified Vegan
• Certifications: Certified Halal, Certified Kosher
• Availability: Canada
• Notes: Refrigerated muffins, snacks for both adults and kids

Cookies

We've yet to meet a kid who doesn't love cookies with a glass of milk—or milk alternatives. Nut-free and tree nut-free cookies are not just an option; they're a delight all on their own.

Allergy Smart Double Chocolate Cookies

• Peanut Free Facility: Yes
• Nut Free Facility: Yes
• Claims: Individually Wrapped, Plant Based
• Certifications: Certified Kosher, Certified Non-GMO
• Availability: Canada, USA
• Notes: Produced in a facility free from top 10 allergens. 6 Wraps

Wise Bites Chocolate Cookies

• Peanut Free Facility: Yes
• Nut Free Facility: Yes
• Claims: Certified Vegan, Free from Top 11 Allergens, Made in Canada, School Safe
• Certifications: Certified Gluten Free, Certified Kosher, Certified Non-GMO
• Availability: Canada, USA
• Notes: Small-sized cookies that are easy to handle by young kids.

Home Free Vanilla Cookies

• Peanut Free Facility: Yes
• Nut Free Facility: Yes
• Claims: Certified Vegan, Free of Top 14 Allergens
• Certifications: Certified Gluten Free
• Availability: Canada, USA
• Notes: Dedicated facility containing no peanuts, tree nuts, eggs, dairy, fish, shellfish, soy, wheat, gluten, or sesame

Crackers

Ideal for those who prefer savory over sweet, these peanut-free crackers are the perfect snack for movie nights or casual gatherings.

Made Good Star Puffed Cheddar Flavour Crackers

• Peanut Free Facility: Yes
• Nut Free Facility: Yes
• Claims: Made With Whole Grain
• Certifications: Certified Gluten Free, Certified Kosher, Certified Non-GMO, Certified Organic, Certified Vegan
• Availability: Canada, USA
• Notes: These will remind you of the taste of gold fish crackers

Freeyumm Cheezy Cracker Bites

• Peanut Free Facility: Yes
• Nut Free Facility: Yes
• Claims: Nothing Artificial, Plant Based, Product of Canada, School-Friendly
• Certifications: Certified Gluten Free, Certified Kosher, Certified Non-GMO
• Availability: Canada, USA, UK
• Notes: Smiley face cookies.

Chocolate

Finding chocolate bars free from peanuts and tree nuts can be a challenge. We’ve compiled a list of safe, delicious options for all chocolate lovers.

Enjoy Life Milk Chocolate Flavour Chocolate Bar

• Peanut Free Facility: No
• Nut Free Facility: Yes
• Claims: School Safe
• Certifications: Certified Gluten Free, Certified Non-GMO
• Availability: Canada, USA, UK
• Notes: Also available in crunchy taste

No Whey Milkless Chocolate Bar

• Peanut Free Facility: Yes
• Nut Free Facility: Yes
• Claims: Plant Based, Vegan
• Certifications: Certified Kosher, Certified Non-GMO
• Availability: Canada, USA, UK
• Notes: Great alternative to Enjoy Life chocolate bar

Ice Cream

Ice cream is the quintessential treat for summer vacations or after-school surprises. These peanut and tree nut-free varieties, including popsicles, are safe and satisfying choices.

SNO Chocolate Chips Dairy Free Ice Cream Sandwich

• Peanut Free Facility: Yes
• Nut Free Facility: Yes
• Claims: Allergy Friendly, Certified B Corp, Oat based, Palm oil free, Plant Based
• Availability: Canada
• Notes:

Debees Organics Superfruit Freezie Pops

• Claims: Certified B Corp, No Artificial Colours, No Artificial Flavorings, Preservatives Free, Vegan, Women Owned
• Certifications: Certified Kosher, Certified Non-GMO, Certified Organic
• Availability: Canada, USA
• Notes: Top 9 allergen free. 100% fruit juice and purees. Great option for daycare.

Donuts

Warm donuts can brighten any morning. Choose from the following selection of nut-free donuts for school events or relaxed weekend breakfasts.

Kinnikinnick Vanilla Glazed Donuts

• Peanut Free Facility: Yes
• Nut Free Facility: Yes
• Certifications: Certified Gluten Free, Certified Kosher
• Availability: Canada, USA
• Notes: Refrigerated donuts. Highly trusted gluten-free brand.

Donut Time Powdered Sugar Donuts

• Peanut Free Facility: Yes
• Nut Free Facility: No
• Availability: Canada, USA
• Notes: : Mini sized donuts with powdered sugar.

Cereal Bars and Granola Bars

Great for the lunchbox or a hiking trip, these nut-free granola bars offer all the crunch without the worry.

Made Good Chocolate Chip Granola Bars

• Peanut Free Facility: Yes
• Nut Free Facility: Yes
• Claims: Allergy Friendly, Certified B Corp, Made With Whole Grain, Made in Canada, Nutrients from Vegetables
• Certifications:Certified Gluten Free, Certified Kosher, Certified Non-GMO, Certified Organic
• Availability: Canada, USA, UK
• Notes: Made in a dedicated peanut, tree nut dairy, egg, wheat, gluten soy, sesame, fish and shellfish free facility.

Bagged Popcorn

School movie nights just got better! With allergy-friendly, nut-free bagged popcorn, you and your kids can focus on enjoying movie rather than scrutinizing ingredients.

Skinny Pop White Cheddar Bagged Popcorn

• Claims: No Artificial Colours, Nothing Artificial, Preservatives Free
• Certifications: Certified Gluten Free, Certified Kosher, Certified Non-GMO, Certified Vegan
• Availability: Canada, USA
• Notes: High in fibre, 45 Calories per cup.

PUR Sweet and Salty Popcorn

• Claims: Vegan
• Certifications: Certified Non-GMO
• Availability: Canada, USA
• Notes: Sweet and salty option by a Canadian company.

Dried Fruit and Chips

Who says healthy can't be tasty? These dried fruits are free of common allergens, making them an ideal substitute for nut-containing trail mixes.

The Greencious Munch Apple Chips

• Claims: No Added Sugar, No Artificial Colours, No Artificial Flavorings, No Canola Oil, No Lactose
• Certifications: Certified Non-GMO
• Availability: Canada
• Notes: Small bag of dried apple chips. Suitable for young kids of day care age.

Vibe Carrots Crunchy Carrots

• Peanut Free Facility: Yes
• Nut Free Facility: Yes
• Claims: GMO free, Preservatives Free, Vegan
• Availability: Canada
• Notes: Larger 75 gram pack.

Enjoy Life Dill and Sour Cream Lentil Chips

• Peanut Free Facility: No
• Nut Free Facility: Yes
• Claims: School Safe
• Certifications: Certified Gluten Free, Certified Non-GMO
• Availability: Canada, USA
• Notes:

Fruit Snacks

BEAR Raspberry Fruit Rolls

• Claims: Gently Dried Fruit rolls., Natural ingredients, No Added Sugar, No Artificial Colours, Vegan
• Certifications: Certified Kosher, Certified Non-GMO
• Availability: Canada, USA, UK
• Notes: Allergy friendly alternative to Welch's fruit rolls

Trail Mix

Here’s the kicker – you can have trail mix without nuts! Perfect for picnics or as a quick snack, these nut-free blends are as adventurous as your little ones.

Healthy Crunch Chocolate Cherry Sundae Trail Mix

• Peanut Free Facility: Yes
• Nut Free Facility: Yes
• Claims: Certified Keto, Made in Small Batches, No Artificial Colours, Paleo, School Approved
• Certifications: Certified Gluten Free, Certified Non-GMO
• Availability: Canada, USA
• Notes: Unique trail mix without the nuts

SeedWise Mixed Berries Keto Clusters

• Claims: : Certified Keto, Grain free, Made in Canada, Peanut Free Facility, Plant Based, Vegan
• Certifications: Certified Kosher, Certified Non-GMO
• Availability: Canada, USA
• Notes: Sweet grain free snacks for both adults and kids

Preparation-Friendly Snacks

Popcorn

Just microwave to air-popped, enjoy the freedom to make your popcorn just the way you like it—sans arachides ni noix, of course!

Skinny Pop Sea Salt Instant Popcorn

• Claims: No artificial colours, Preservatives free
• Certifications: Certified Gluten Free, Certified Vegan, Certified Kosher, Certified Non-GMO
• Availability: Canada, USA
• Notes: Microwavable packs with easy portability

Cookie Dough

Why wait for the cookies to bake? Nut-free cookie dough is both a fun activity and a delightful treat. Eat raw or make cookies

Ohh Foods Sunflower Butter Cup Cookie Dough

• Claims: Allergen Friendly, Edible
• Availability: Canada, USA
• Notes: You will find these in the refrigerated section

Cereal

Mornings are smoother with cereals that pack a crunch weather you are at home or travelling. With following options, breakfast just became the easiest meal of the day.

One Degree Rolled Oats

• Peanut Free Facility: Yes
• Nut Free Facility: Yes
• Claims: 100% Ingredient Transparency, Glyphosate free, Made With Whole Grain
• Certifications: Certified Gluten Free, Certified Kosher, Certified Non-GMO, Certified Organic
• Availability: Canada, USA

Made Good Chocolate Banana Granola

• Peanut Free Facility: Yes
• Nut Free Facility: Yes
• Certifications: Certified Kosher, Certified Organic
• Availability: Canada, USA

Sweet Bread Buns

These soft, fluffy buns offer a subtly sweet flavor, perfect for breakfast, teatime, or as a light dessert. Ideal for pairing with coffee or tea, they serve as a delightful treat for any time of the day.

Ozery Cinnamon Snacking Rounds

• Peanut Free Facility: Yes
• Nut Free Facility: No
• Claims: No Artificial Colours, Nothing Artificial, Preservatives Free, Vegan
• Certifications: Certified Kosher
• Availability: Canada, USA

Key Takeaways

Peanut and Nut Free Snacks List

• Go Bio Vegan Gummi Bears
• Free2b Chocolate Sunflower Butter Mini Cups
• Yumearth Mixed Fruit Gummy Bears
• Enjoy Life Milk Chocolate Flavour Chocolate Bar
• SchoolSafe Fabulous Vanilla Mini Cupcakes
• SchoolSafe Creamy Chocolate Mini Cupcakes
• SNO Chocolate Chips Dairy Free Ice Cream Sandwich
• Enjoy Life Dill and Sour Cream Lentil Chips
• No Whey Milkless Chocolate Bar
• Kerr's Great North Pops
• BEAR Raspberry Fruit Rolls
• Skinny Pop White Cheddar Bagged Popcorn
• SeedWise Mixed Berries Keto Clusters
• Ozery Cinnamon Snacking Rounds
• Debees Organics Superfruit Strawberry Mango Blueberry Freezie Pops
• Vibe Carrots Crunchy Carrots
• Sweets From The Earth Blueberry Streusel Muffin
• Sweets From The Earth Banana Chocolate Chip Muffin
• Ohh Foods Sunflower Butter Cup Cookie Dough
• Kinnikinnick Vanilla Glazed Donuts
• Two-Bite Vanilla Cupcakes
• Healthy Crunch Chocolate Cherry Sundae Trail Mix
• Donut Time Powdered Sugar Donuts
• The Greencious Munch Apple Chips
• Sweets From The Earth Cookies and Cream Cake
• Sweets From The Earth Smores Cake
• PUR Sweet and Salty Popcorn
• Made Good Chocolate Banana Granola
• Home Free Vanilla Cookies
• Freeyumm Cheezy Cracker Bites
• Allergy Smart Double Chocolate Cookies
• Wise Bites Chocolate Chocolate Cookies
• Made Good Chocolate Chip Granola Bars
• One Degree Rolled Oats
• Made Good Star Puffed Cheddar Flavour Crackers

Snacks Made In Nut Free Facility

• Go Bio Vegan Gummi Bears
• Kerr's Great North Pops
• BEAR Raspberry Fruit Rolls
• Skinny Pop White Cheddar Bagged Popcorn
• SeedWise Mixed Berries Keto Clusters
• Ozery Cinnamon Snacking Rounds
• Debees Organics Superfruit Strawberry Mango Blueberry Freezie Pops
• Vibe Carrots Crunchy Carrots
• Ohh Foods Sunflower Butter Cup Cookie Dough
• Donut Time Powdered Sugar Donuts
• The Greencious Munch Apple Chips
• PUR Sweet and Salty Popcorn
• Home Free Vanilla Cookies
• Freeyumm Cheezy Cracker Bites
• Allergy Smart Double Chocolate Cookies

Snacks Made in Peanut Free Facility

• Go Bio Vegan Gummi Bears
• Enjoy Life Milk Chocolate Flavour Chocolate Bar
• Enjoy Life Dill and Sour Cream Lentil Chips
• Kerr's Great North Pops
• BEAR Raspberry Fruit Rolls
• Skinny Pop White Cheddar Bagged Popcorn
• SeedWise Mixed Berries Keto Clusters
• Debees Organics Superfruit Strawberry Mango Blueberry Freezie Pops
• Vibe Carrots Crunchy Carrots
• Ohh Foods Sunflower Butter Cup Cookie Dough
• Donut Time Powdered Sugar Donuts
• The Greencious Munch Apple Chips
• PUR Sweet and Salty Popcorn
• Home Free Vanilla Cookies
• Freeyumm Cheezy Cracker Bites
• Allergy Smart Double Chocolate Cookies

Common FAQs

What are common foods to avoid with a tree nut allergy?

Common foods to avoid with a tree nut allergy include products with almonds, Brazil nuts, cashews, chestnuts, hazelnuts, hickory nuts, macadamia nuts, pecans, pine nuts, pistachios, and walnuts. Be vigilant about checking labels, as these nuts can be in snacks, oils, and spreads.

Is a peanut a tree nut?

A peanut is not a tree nut; it's a legume, belonging to the same family as peas and beans. Unlike tree nuts, peanuts grow underground. For more information, please visit our blog covering food allergens.