Tips for leading a peanut free life

Written by: AllergySense

If you notice any symptoms after eating a certain food, the first step is to visit your family doctor who will refer you to an allergist.  This should be done right away and in the meantime, avoid eating that food.  The best advice for those diagnosed with peanut allergies is to stay away from peanuts and remember to carry an epinephrine auto-injector device, if one has been prescribed.

Ingredients should always be read on all labels. You should also continue to regularly read the ingredients on pre-packaged foods before you purchase them, as companies may sometimes change or alter ingredients without warning.  This includes avoiding foods that “may contain” or “may have come in contact with” peanuts.  If you come across an ingredient you aren’t sure about, don’t take the risk.  Find out what it is before you decide to buy it.

Try to make your household peanut-free.  Even if you try to avoid peanuts, there are always chances of cross-contamination.  Peanuts can be passed between dishes by preparing foods on the same surfaces, using the same utensils or even not properly washing hands between preparation of meals.  Clean products with soap and water only. Using other cleaning products including alcohol based products may sanitize surfaces but not take away the peanut oil. A peanut-free home is the easiest way to avoid these potential mistakes.

If your child has been diagnosed with peanut allergies, ensure that he or she carries an epinephrine auto-injector device at all times.  You may also choose to buy a medical alert bracelet or necklace to help inform others of your child’s allergies when you are not around.  Make sure that your child knows and understands his or her allergies.  Because your child may be too young to know what is safe, discuss your child’s allergies with supervising adults – this means teachers, sports coaches and other parents.  Provide your child with a homemade peanut-free lunch and tell your child never to share food with friends.

If you are planning to dine out, you can call the restaurant ahead of time.  Speak directly with a manager to ensure that a peanut-free dish can be prepared.  Make sure that they are also aware of possible cross-contamination issues.  When you arrive at the restaurant, speak with your server or the manager again. Ensure that the message gets across the chef or the cooking staff. Share your experiences with AllergySense.  We are always looking for great businesses and services who understand food allergies and want to share the knowledge with others.

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