Careful. The onslaught of school parties, trick-or-treating, and other food-centric celebrations around Halloween puts children with food allergies at a higher risk of exposure to allergens than usual. Here are a few tips from the local food allergy experts at Atlanta Allergy & Asthma:
– Get a proper diagnosis. If you suspect your child has a food allergy, visit a board-certified allergist for a proper diagnosis and plan of action before the Halloween season starts.
– Avoid any special "fun-sized" Halloween candies. These can contain different ingredients than their regular sized counterparts, and are often made in separate factories as well.
– Look out for the "The Teal Pumpkin." Families are invited to support kids with food allergies during Halloween by keeping a teal-painted pumpkin outside their home to indicate non-food Halloween treats inside.
– Prepare a stash of allergen-safe treats and non-food items like stickers, pencils, and small toys for your child to exchange any unsafe candy collected at school or while trick-or-treating.
– Reach out to teachers and other parents involved in classroom parties or social gatherings so they are aware of your child's allergies and what to do in case of an allergic reaction.
– Be sure you carry injectable epinephrine with the child for any trick-or-treating, parties, or gatherings involving food.
– Discard any food/candy brought home that does not come with a label. Remember, "When in doubt, throw it out!"
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