No, flaxseed is not a nut. It is a seed.
Flaxseed, like other seeds such as sesame, sunflower, pumpkin, chia, and hemp, is botanically and allergically distinct from tree nuts. While some people may have allergies to seeds, seeds are not categorized as nuts and typically don't need to be avoided unless specifically instructed by an allergist.
Here's a breakdown:
- Nuts: These are typically hard-shelled fruits of certain trees or shrubs containing an edible kernel. Examples include almonds, walnuts, pecans, cashews, and hazelnuts.
- Seeds: These are embryonic plants enclosed in a protective outer covering (seed coat). They are generally smaller and have different nutritional profiles compared to nuts. Examples include flaxseed, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, and chia seeds.
The important difference lies in their botanical origin and allergenic properties. People with tree nut allergies can often safely consume seeds, and vice versa, unless they also have a specific seed allergy.
