Tips for eating out and buying food when you have allergies

Tips for eating out and buying food when you have allergies

Eating a meal in a restaurant or café can be a harrowing experience if you have a food allergy. Here are some tips to make it easier and safer:

• Phone the restaurant in advance. Explain you have a food allergy and ask if they can cater for this. If so, go through the menu with them and work out something you could safely eat. If they are doubtful or unhelpful, try another restaurant

• When you arrive, talk to the wait staff and explain you have a serious allergy. If you have phoned ahead, say that you have already spoken with the chef and ask them to tell the chef you are here. If you have not phoned ahead, ask to speak with the chef or maitre d’

• Read menus carefully and clarify what is in foods if you are unsure• Especially check dressings, sauces and desserts

• Double check for garnishes or extras when the meal arrives

• Take medication with you in case of a reaction

• Some restaurants may allow you to take in safe food for a child or you may be able to take safe bread to have before the meal

• Fried food may pose a particular risk as fryers often end up with bits from all sorts of foods including egg, wheat, fish, seafood and milk

• Check food displays in supermarkets and delicatessens for possible cross-contamination

• Ask staff whether food is prepared with clean equipment and with utensils kept separate for food containing the allergen, eg, chicken kebab kept away from peanut satay chicken.

Resourches :http://www.nzfsa.govt.nz/consumers/allergies-intolerances/#P217_19207