An estimated 6% of Canadian children have food
allergies, and the numbers continue to rise. With many
schools now becoming peanut-free and some even tree-nut free,
parents need to ensure they pack allergy-friendly foods for school
lunches. If you’re a fan of the old standby, a peanut butter and jelly
sandwich, it’s time to add some new ideas to your school lunch
repertoire!
While most allergic reactions are caused by peanuts and tree nuts,
other common allergens include soy, wheat, sesame seeds, seafood,
eggs, milk, sulphites and mustard. Reactions can range from
itchiness and hives to an anaphylactic reaction that could be deadly.
Find out from your school whether they limit allergens beyond nuts.
If Your Child Has a Food Allergy
School boards across Canada have policies to optimize safety and
deal with emergency situations for students with allergies. If you’re
a parent of a child with a food allergy, it’s important to meet with the
principal, teachers and cafeteria workers to make sure they’re
informed. See that a safety and emergency plan are in place to
protect your child. It’s essential that you find out whether the school
has any food policies such as discouraging kids from sharing food.
Speaking to your child about his or her allergy and how to react to
scenarios that could come up is another key part of getting ready
for the school year. Food Allergy Canada has some great resources
on their site foodallergycanada.ca.
Make sure children with allergies understand how to read ingredient
lists and know not to accept any unlabeled food from other kids.
Beyond that, keep it positive! Focus on all of the delicious and
healthy options your child can eat.
WWW.EATINEATOUT.CA
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