Warm weather days are ideal for spending time outdoors with family and friends and enjoying some of your favorite foods. Whether it’s a picnic in the park, a backyard barbecue, or an outdoor concert, it’s important to follow basic food and allergy safety tips. This ensures that your guests are free to not only enjoy their favorite foods but the outdoor festivities.

What are food allergies?

According to the United States Food and Drug Administration, millions of Americans suffer from food allergies each year. This results in an average of 30,000 emergency room visits, 2,000 hospitalizations, and 150 deaths each year.

Food allergies are the result of the body’s immune system reacting to certain food proteins. Common food allergens are found in milk, eggs, fish, crustacean shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat, soybeans, and sesame. Some people are also allergic to fruits like melons, bananas, and berries. While many reactions are mild and likely go unreported, food allergy reactions can vary, ranging from hives and swelling lips to life-threatening symptoms that can cause shock, respiratory complications, and even death.

Avoiding Food Allergens

There is no cure for food allergies, but reactions can be treated. People with food allergies must try to prevent reactions by avoiding food allergens in the first place. To do this, read all food labels. If you encounter an allergic reaction, be sure to seek immediate medical attention. You might also wear a medical alert bracelet or keep medical information handy to inform others if you are unable to communicate. Consider the following safety tips when handling food.

Wash and Prep Food Safely

When preparing food for family and friends, always wash foods thoroughly under cool, running water. Keep food prep areas clean and free of crumbs or juices that may contain traces of allergens that can cross-contaminate other foods.

Clearly Label Foods and Beverages

Make it easy for family and friends to identify which foods and beverages are gluten-free, vegan, or may contain peanuts, wheat, dairy, or other food allergens by visibly marking each food item. You can also post a sign stating the possibility of containing food allergens. Simply placing food safety stamps are perfect for marking foods that guests or family members with food sensitivities should avoid.

Pack Food with Care

Always keep foods with potential allergy contaminants sealed tightly and packed separately from other food items. Try packing in separate containers and coolers whenever possible. Make sure all allergy-specific foods are clearly labeled to avoid cross contamination and improper placement on your buffet-style picnic table.

More Information

Visit www.aces.edu to find additional food safety information.