Is coconut a tree nut on food labels?

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In short: Since January 2025, the US FDA no longer lists coconut as a tree nut that must be declared as a major allergen. Coconut still has to appear by name in the ingredient list, and the change does not mean it cannot cause an allergic reaction. Older packs may still say "Contains: tree nuts (coconut)". Ask your allergist whether you need to avoid it.

For years, US labels could say "Contains: tree nuts (coconut)". That changed with a revised FDA guidance published on 6 January 2025.

What changed

The FDA narrowed its list of tree nuts covered by allergen labelling, and coconut is no longer on it. Companies no longer have to declare coconut as a major allergen.

What did not change

This is a US rule. Other countries have their own lists, so read the label in the country where you buy the food. See also hidden peanut and tree nut names.

How IngrediLens helps

IngrediLens reads the ingredient list on a label with your iPhone camera and highlights the allergens you chose, including "may contain" statements. It can miss things and is not a medical device, so always check the pack yourself and, if the source of an ingredient is unclear, ask the manufacturer.

Check labels with IngrediLens

Point your iPhone camera at an ingredient list and IngrediLens highlights the allergens you chose and “may contain” statements. Free to start, no account, and your data stays on your device.

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Frequently asked questions

Is coconut still on the ingredient list?

Yes. Coconut used as an ingredient still has to be named in the ingredient list, even when it is not in a Contains statement.

Does the change mean coconut is not an allergen?

No. It changes a labelling requirement. Some people do react to coconut, so ask your allergist what applies to you.

Why do some packs still say tree nuts (coconut)?

The FDA set no firm compliance date for removing the statement, so you may see both versions in shops.

Sources

  1. US FDA, Questions and Answers Regarding Food Allergens (Edition 5)
  2. US FDA, Food Allergies
  3. FARE, Update to FDA Guidance for Food Allergen Labeling

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Written and maintained by IngrediLens. Each guide lists its official sources; it is general information, not medical advice. IngrediLens at a glance: how it works and who makes it

General information, not medical advice. Always read the label on the product itself and follow the advice of your doctor or allergist. If someone shows signs of anaphylaxis, use their adrenaline auto-injector if they have one and call emergency services.