Halloween Food Allergy Guide for Parents

Halloween is a time filled with spooky fun, but for children with food allergies and their families, there can be a true element of fear surrounding this holiday. Many Halloween candies and treats can be frightening to some families - and for good reason. Fortunately, with careful planning, communication, and education, you can reduce the risk of a food allergy scare accompanying your family’s Halloween experience.  

What is so frightening about food allergies?

If a child eats a treat with a food allergy, there can be various reactions ranging from rashes, itching, and vomiting to a life-threatening reaction like anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis can begin extremely quickly and start with symptoms such as a tightening of the throat, trouble breathing, or tingling feelings. The response to this should include the use of an epinephrine pen and calling 911.

What do I need to know about food allergies when buying Halloween treats?

The most common allergens found in Halloween treats include peanuts, tree nuts, cow’s milk, egg, and wheat. You can learn more about these allergens on the Healthy Children website. Generally, if you look at the list of ingredients on any food product, it will list all potential allergens in the last line of the ingredients. 

Something especially important to keep in mind when you are considering allergens in your Halloween treat choices is that “fun size” treats sometimes contain different ingredients than the full-sized versions of the same candy. This means that you always need to check “fun size” treat ingredients very carefully.
Check here for a list of nut-free candies and for non-candy items to give out as your treats this year.

Click here to continue reading this article via Family Education! It includes:

• Trick or treating tips for families with food allergies
• Food allergy tips for families attending Halloween parties and school events

Comment below and tell us your favorite allergy friendly treats to give out at Halloween!