Christmas Pudding allergens - don't turn your brain to pudding this Christmas double check your ingredient lists
Nothing is more indulgent than a Christmas pudding! But what about those pesky Christmas pudding allergens? While many people can enjoy all the festive foods until their heart's content and stomach is full; Christmas can be stressful for those with allergies.
There are many ingredients that can be found in Christmas pudding, and the Christmas pudding allergens might surprise you. When talking about Christmas pudding allergens it isn’t that people are specifically allergic to Christmas pudding (although some people might say to get out of eating it!). Christmas pudding allergens refer to the specific ingredients that makes up a Christmas pudding.
There are many recipes out there for Christmas pudding. However elaborate, one thing is sure that Christmas puddings contain copious amounts of dried fruits such as; sultanas, raisins, dried apricots etc. Orange juice and zest can also make an appearance, as well as butter, sugar, eggs, flour, nuts, and more. Each recipe may have a different twist, but you can guarantee that they will all be soaked in brandy or some other liqueur.
When you break down a Christmas pudding recipe there are many allergens that can be found. It is always important to read each recipe carefully as some may vary based on personal taste and flavour balances. However, your average christmas pudding will contain the following allergens:
Gluten - this will be found in the flour that is used. If there is a specific type of flour that doesn’t contain gluten it will be specified.
Eggs - most traditional Christmas puddings are made using eggs in the recipes.
Nuts - there can be a variety of nuts within a Christmas pudding recipe so always double check the labels as to which nuts can be found in it.
Sulphites - Brandy can contain sulphites and so can other liquors. It’s always best to check which type of alcohol a Christmas pudding has been soaked in.
Those are just a few of the main 14 allergens that can be found in a Christmas pudding. However, some people have allergies to other ingredients that aren’t part of the main 14. It is always best to check if you are unsure whether someone is allergic to specific ingredients in Christmas pudding.
With the rise in gluten intolerance and our understanding of allergens, gluten free products are becoming more widely available. It is always best to check the gluten free section of a store, or speak to the restaurant when asking about gluten free Christmas pudding.
A nut allergy can be the most difficult allergen to manage as many products can contain traces of nuts. If you are looking for a nut-free Christmas pudding you should find it within the nut-free range. Always check labels before buying products and when eating out double check with the restaurant what allergens are found in specific dishes.
There are many alternatives to Christmas pudding and anything can be a Christmas dessert when using the main Christmas spices. The trick with looking for Christmas pudding allergens is to be vigilant. Always check ingredient lists, and ensure you understand the individual ingredients.
Christmas can be daunting for many people who suffer from food intolerances and allergies. It can be just as daunting for businesses who might not fully understand their role in providing information and clarification around their menus. Here at Allergen Checker we offer a fully digital allergen management system which can help keep you and your customers in the know when it comes to allergens and your menus. Contact us now for more information or try us out for your 7 day free trial.