Holidays that revolve around food can truly be extra challenging for families raising children with food allergies. Here are some common allergens found in traditional family meals.
Holiday cookies: wheat, peanuts, tree nuts, dairy, eggs
Self-basting turkey: soy, wheat, dairy
Green bean casserole: dairy, wheat, tree nuts
Sauces and salad dressings: fish, shellfish, eggs, dairy, seeds
Vegan or "dairy-free" spreads, dips, and dressings: tree nuts, legumes, soy
Sweet Potato Casserole: dairy, peanuts, tree nuts, eggs
Pies: dairy, wheat, peanuts, tree nuts, eggs
7 Tips to Prevent Food Allergy Worries
Tell the host about food allergies in advance
Offer to bring an allergen-safe dish
Offer to show recipes to guests who have food allergies
Keep food packaging for guests to review
Avoid cross-contamination during food preparation and serving
Everyone should always wash their hands with soap and water before and after meals
Have your epinephrine auto-injector with you at all times, and remember…”No epi, no eating!”