Back to School: The Most Common Food Allergies

Photo courtesy of Paper & Pigtails.
For Free Printables for Kids with Allergies, click HERE. 

For many kids, summer fun is over and children are gradually starting to make their way back to the classroom. For some, being in school can be life threatening; especially if surrounded by foods that can make them sick.

According to a recent article in Family Circle, about 90% of food allergies involve just eight foods. I've heard many parents complain over the years about not being able to bring in cupcakes or a specific treat for their child's birthday. But is it really worth another child getting sick over? I am one of the fortunate ones who have children without any food allergy issues, but many of my children's friends do. It's important that everyone be aware and to seek alternatives so as not to alienate a child in class. No one wants to feel like they don't belong.

Though not a complete list, here are the most common food allergies...

• Peanuts .6%
• Fish .6%
• Soy .6%
• Eggs 1%
• Shellfish 1.2%
• Wheat 1.3%
• Milk 3%
• Tree Nuts (almonds, pecans, cashews, walnuts) 4.1%

Helpful Tips

1. Before bringing in a snack, ask your childs' teacher if anyone in the class has a specific allergy. 
2. Check labels! Even if a product doesn't contain the ingredient, it may be produced in a factory that does and cross contamination may occur. Every allergy sufferer has a different level of tolerance from mild (slight nausea or rash) to extreme (anaphylaxis shock). 
3. If your child does have a food allergy, provide a suggested list of acceptable items. The teacher can then distribute the list to other parents so that they know what is/isn't safe. 
4. Some good choices are snacks that are healthier like fruit, popcorn, vegetables with hummus or low/no sugar popsicles. 

A Little Inspiration

Crudite with Semi-Homemade Green Goddess Dressing

(contains dairy)

Brown Sugar and Cinnamon Pretzels

(contains wheat)

Cherry Tomato Bites

(contains dairy)

Low Fat Blueberry Muffins

(contains wheat and eggs)

Energy Bars

(contains tree nuts)

Black Bean and Kalamata Olive Hummus

White Chocolate Apple Walnut Granola Bars

(contains tree nuts)

And one of our favorites....

Bruschetta

Have a great school year!