5 Things You Can Do To Become Food Allergy Woke
Chances are you know someone with food allergies — it could be your child, neighbor, frienime, or your coworker in the next cubicle. With more than 15 million people in the US with a food allergy, here are some actions the non-food allergy community can take to become more aware. It is never solely the responsibility of someone else to tend to an individual’s food allergies, but it is nice to make a conscious effort and follow these very simple suggestions:
When in a shared food space, BE CAREFUL not to mix foods and cross contaminate. For some, even a trace amount can lead to an anaphylactic reaction. The worst thing is for peanut butter to find its way into a jar it doesn’t belong in.
BE PATIENT. We’re reading the labels on our food because ingredients are always changing. We’re asking lots of questions at the restaurant because we need to know what’s in our meal. It’s that simple.
PLAN dinner parties suitable for all. Offer a survey to your guests, make ingredient cards for each dish, and have a few options. Going to a party and not being able to eat is like going to an amusement park and not being able to get on any rides.
TAKE A BREAK from social media and check out the FARE website. There are walks you can participate in, documentaries you can watch, and other key educational resources. Got questions about food allergies? Here’s where you can find the answers.
LISTEN when someone tells you about their food allergies. It’s hard to trust someone who is repeatedly forgetting what is safe vs. what isn’t safe. Paying attention is key when it comes to food allergies, especially if you are responsible for someone else’s meal.
