Hi Amy,

For those with some kind of tree nut allergy, resulting in severe anaphylaxis, walnut shell will pose significant and potentially fatal risks, even from microscopic amounts. While someone with a severe allergy would probably avoid an exhibit even with dirt/sand as the base, these materials are probably better suited as they don't pose such an acute risk.

A google search for the term anaphylaxis will provide plenty of great information and in particular the relevant wikipedia article gives a good introduction. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anaphylaxis

The main problem is that severe allergic reactions of this type are not reliant on the amount of allergen, merely it's presence in most cases.

Hope this was helpful,

James

-- James Donaldson
Museum Student Coordinator, R.D. Milns Antiquities Museum
Room 327, Level 3, Building 9, UQ St Lucia Campus


On Wed, Aug 12, 2009 at 6:08 AM, Amy Perron <[log in to unmask]> wrote:
All-
I’m considering using walnut shell grit opposed to sand/dirt in a mock dig exhibit. Does anyone know if this poses a problem with folks allergic to nuts?

Thanks
Amy

  
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