Snyder's of Hanover goes peanut-free

HANOVER, Pa. -- Just in time for back to school, Snyder's of Hanover has transitioned its main pretzel bakery to a peanut-free production facility to accommodate consumer demand for snacks free of the allergen.

"Snyder's of Hanover pretzels have always been a great snacking option for families with kids because they're baked, wholesome and delicious," said Rod Troni, CMO for Snyder's-Lance. "Now that our bakeries are peanut-free facilities, it makes pretzels an even better choice, especially for kids with peanut allergies.  They provide families with a great snack alternative for school, home or anywhere with friends."

According to Food Allergy Research and Education, approximately 3 million people report allergies to peanuts and tree nuts, and the number of children living with peanut allergies appears to have tripled between 1997 and 2008. The rise in nut allergies among America's children has led some schools to eliminate their use of peanut products altogether and discourage children without peanut allergies from bringing peanut products to school.

"It's important to note that most of our Snyder's of Hanover® products already did not contain nuts," said Troni. "But we took the extra step of turning our facility peanut-free to eliminate the chances of cross-contamination."

Snyder's of Hanover pretzels made in any of the company's peanut-free facilities will have packaging clearly marked with a peanut-free icon and allergen information. Many of the products, including favorites such as Pretzel Minis, Pretzel Sticks, Pretzel Snaps and Pretzel Rods already display the new allergen information and are on shelves now. Remaining products with updated graphics will be on store shelves by the end of the year.