Living With Food Allergies

Living with food allergies has impacted my life in ways that are hard for someone without allergies to understand. I always have to be vigilant about what I eat, whether I’m at a restaurant with friends, grabbing food from a truck, visiting someone’s home, or even checking my own pantry. It’s often more difficult than it seems.

One of my earliest memories of dealing with my allergies was at a hibachi restaurant. My mom informed the chef that I was allergic to sesame, but instead of taking it seriously, he pointed at me and called me a loser. That experience made me afraid to speak up and shameful about my allergies, even at friends’ and family members’ houses.

In recent years, I’ve grown more confident about voicing my allergies in restaurants and when visiting others, but it took me a long time to get there. If you are also feeling like this or have felt like this before, here are some ways to become more confident in voicing the allergies you have to ensure your safety when you go out to eat!

Conquer Your Fear – Tips to Living With Food Allergies

1. Educate yourself: Educating yourself on your allergens can be a huge step in becoming more confident in discussing your allergies! Look into what allergies can be hidden in certain foods, like tree nuts in pesto, for example. Not everyone working at a restaurant will recognize what foods you’re allergic to, so it is good to know for yourself in order to avoid an unexpected reaction, avoid cross-contamination, or to confidently explain it to your server. 
2. Research the restaurant: Look into the menu before you go to the restaurant to look for foods that look safe to you. Remember, it is always okay to call ahead of time and ask if accommodations can be made. This can help calm some anxieties when you arrive. 
3. Bring a supportive friend/family member: A friend or family member that knows about your allergies can make it more comfortable addressing your allergies. Not to mention, more than likely they will be the first ones to mention your allergies to your server. 
4. Fake it till you make it: Confidence is key… even if you have to fake it at first. It is scary speaking up, but most restaurants appreciate transparency about allergies from the get-go. This way, the restaurant can do everything in its power to avoid cross contamination and allow you to enjoy your experience. Instead of feeling awkward or like a burden because of your allergies, frame your allergy as a normal part of the dining experience. This will give you more confidence in addressing your allergies
5. Know your rights: The FDA Food Code requires that the person in charge has knowledge of the major food allergens regulated by the FDA. It states that retail and food service managers must be aware of food allergies, understand the seriousness of them, know allergen ingredients and labeling, and prevent cross-contamination. Additionally, the foodservice manager is responsible for making sure employees are properly trained in food safety, including how food allergies relate to their specific job duties. To read more about your rights as a customer, visit the FDA’s Website.
6. Trust your instincts: If something feels wrong, don’t hesitate to avoid eating the dish or speak up! Trusting your instincts can build your confidence in making decisions about your food safety!

Living with food allergies involves more than just avoiding certain foods. It takes time and effort to build the confidence needed to speak up without feeling like you’re a burden to restaurants or food establishments. But always remember—your safety comes first!

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