As the holiday season approaches, many of us are looking forward to gathering with our loved ones and indulging in delicious food. However, for those with food allergies, this time of year can be filled with anxiety and fear. That’s why “GMA” sponsor ARS Pharma and food allergy advocate Hillary Tolle Carter have teamed up to share ways to make food allergies a non-factor at your holiday gatherings this year.
Food allergies affect millions of people worldwide, and the number continues to rise. According to the Food Allergy Research and Education (FARE), an estimated 32 million Americans have food allergies, and this number is increasing by 5% each year. This means that chances are, someone in your family or circle of friends has a food allergy. And as a host, it’s important to create a safe and inclusive environment for all your guests, including those with food allergies.
That’s where ARS Pharma and Hillary Tolle Carter come in. ARS Pharma is a pharmaceutical company that specializes in developing treatments for food allergies, while Hillary Tolle Carter is a food allergy advocate and founder of the AllergyStrong blog. Together, they have compiled some tips and tricks to help you navigate the holiday season with ease, even if you or your loved ones have food allergies.
1. Communication is key
The first step to creating a safe and inclusive environment for those with food allergies is communication. As a host, it’s essential to ask your guests if they have any food allergies or dietary restrictions. This will not only help you plan your menu but also show your guests that you care about their well-being. If you have a family member or friend with food allergies, make sure to communicate with them beforehand and discuss any concerns or accommodations they may need.
2. Plan your menu carefully
Once you have gathered all the necessary information from your guests, it’s time to plan your menu. With the help of ARS Pharma and Hillary Tolle Carter, you can create a delicious and allergy-friendly spread that everyone can enjoy. Start by avoiding the top eight allergens, which include milk, eggs, peanuts, tree nuts, soy, wheat, fish, and shellfish. Instead, opt for simple and fresh ingredients that are less likely to cause allergic reactions. You can also check out Hillary’s blog for some delicious allergy-friendly recipes.
3. Label your dishes
To make it easier for your guests to identify which dishes are safe for them to eat, label each dish with its ingredients. This will not only help those with food allergies but also those with dietary restrictions or preferences. You can use small cards or labels to list the ingredients or use different colored plates for each dish. This will not only make your guests feel more at ease but also add a fun and festive touch to your table.
4. Be mindful of cross-contamination
Cross-contamination is a significant concern for those with food allergies. It occurs when a small amount of an allergen comes into contact with a safe food, making it unsafe for consumption. To avoid this, make sure to use separate utensils, cutting boards, and serving dishes for each dish. If you’re using the same utensils, make sure to wash them thoroughly before using them for a different dish. You can also ask your guests with food allergies to bring their own utensils to be extra cautious.
5. Have an emergency plan
Despite all the precautions, accidents can still happen. That’s why it’s crucial to have an emergency plan in place in case of an allergic reaction. Make sure to have an epinephrine auto-injector on hand, and know how to use it. If you’re hosting someone with severe food allergies, it’s also a good idea to have their emergency contact information and any necessary medical information on hand.
6. Educate yourself and others
One of the best ways to make food allergies a non-factor at your holiday gatherings is to educate yourself and others. Take the time to learn about different food allergies and how to prevent cross-contamination. Share this information with your guests and encourage them to do the same. The more we educate ourselves and others, the more inclusive and safe our holiday gatherings will be.
With these tips and the support of ARS Pharma and Hillary Tolle Carter, you can make food allergies a non-factor at your holiday gatherings this year. Remember, communication, planning, and education are key to creating a safe and inclusive environment for all your guests. Let’s
