5 Tips for Food Allergy Safe Summer Outings

Hosting someone with a food allergy, especially to milk, can be daunting but doesn’t have to be. Whether at a summer party or picnic, beach or campground, here are 5 tips for having a safe summer outing.

1. Meat- Watch out for pre-made and processed burgers and hot dogs that are often full of fillers and seasonings, many of which contain milk, whey or casein. To be safe, have a meat free celebration and serve Vegan Veggie Burgers from Hilary’s , Sliders from Gardein or my Portobello Mushroom Burgers.

2. Grills– Thoroughly clean grills. Residue from that burger or buttered steak more than likely is on the grill, and even a trace amount of dairy or other allergen, could make someone sick or send them into anaphylaxis.

If you are at a park and using a public table, bring wipes to clean tables and a tablecloth to cover tables that may not be clean or free of allergens.

3. Buns– Did you know a lot of buns and bread sold in grocery stores contain milk, butter or other hidden dairy? Be sure you read labels or opt for Hamburger Buns from Canyon Bakehouse which has the best buns in town that are dairy and gluten free!

4. Condiments – Yes,even mustard might contain dairy. I was shocked when I realized this. This is another reason to always read labels and know the other names for milk like whey and casein. If you have a food allergy and are going to a party, bring condiment single-serve packets to avoid cross contamination. Check the ingredients for salad dressings too. Those are often filled with cheese and other dairy fillers. Hilary’s is another good bet for allergy friendly and delicious salad dressings.

5. EpiPen – Never leave home without it, actually two EpiPens. Even if you are hosting at your own home it’s important for you and another person to know where EpiPens are kept and how to use them.