Most packaged foods you buy in tins, packets or jars have a list of ingredients on the label. Make sure you read labels every time, the recipe and ingredients may change.
Shopping for food
It is important that you get to know the different names of foods to which you are allergic. For example – peanuts may be referred to as groundnuts on food labels or as arachis in toiletries; cow’s milk protein may be labelled as casein.Remember there are many other names by which a food can be known.
Food that is not pre packed which comes from the delicatessen, bakery or salad bars may not be labelled. These foods are at risk of cross contamination so it is best to avoid them. Cross contamination happens when a food that is supposedly free of nuts, for example, accidently comes into contact with nut protein (in the factory or on a work surface or from cutlery).
Supermarkets will provide “free from” lists. Always check these lists are up to date and check every ingredient yourself.
Back to topEating out in restaurants, takeaways and hotels
Try to plan ahead before eating out.
- Telephone – restaurants or hotels in advance to tell them you or your child have a food allergy, and you need to strictly avoid any dishes that contain that food. They may be able to provide a separate dish.
- Explain the risks – make it clear how serious the problem can be.
When you arrive, speak to a senior member of staff or to the chef himself.
- If you are uncertain – ask. Do not take risks. Do not be afraid to leave the restaurant if you are uncertain or do not think they have put allergy controls in place.
Be particularly careful at salad bars and buffets where food can be easily cross contaminated.
Parties
Contact the person giving the party to let them know you or your child has a food allergy and need to strictly avoid food and any recipes containing that food.
When you arrive at the party remind the person providing the food which food you need to strictly avoid and check which dishes or food items can safely be eaten and which need to be avioded. Be particularly careful at buffet parties where food can be cross contaminated (on plates, cutlery etc.).
If your child with a food allergy is under 8 years old, you may prefer to make party food yourself at home and take it with you to the party. This means your child knows that what he or she is eating is safe and, as long as they do not touch the main party food, they can enjoy themselves like everyone else.
As they get older, encourage your child to know their allergies and ask about allergies when offered food or when ordering food in a restaurant.
Allow your child to order food for themselves while you are able to supervise.
Back to topHow to use your adrenaline auto-injector
We recommend that you and your family refresh your skills on a regular basis; practice with your adrenaline auto-injector trainer. This could be done at the beginning of each school term.
There are also alternatives to everyday latex items. For example, latex free condoms are available.
Remember
Be prepared. Have the rescue medicines (antihistamine & adrenaline auto-injector) readily available at all times!
Make sure your friends and family know how to manage an allergic reaction.
