Everyone loves a good potluck, right? Well, not exactly. People with food allergies dread these get-togethers where potential danger lurks in every dish. For up to 15 million Americans with food allergies, potlucks mean going hungry or spending hours in the kitchen making multiple, safe dishes to bring. Neither situation sounds like the good time these feasts were meant to be.
Unfortunately, the number of people with food allergies is growing. Researchers are working hard to understand why, but they don't know the cause yet. What they do know is that kids are more commonly affected by food allergies. But a food allergy can start at any age.
What Are The Most Common Food Allergies?
According to the FDA, the most common food allergies are:
- Milk
- Eggs
- Fish
- Shellfish
- Tree nuts (such as almonds, walnuts, pecans)
- Peanuts
- Wheat
- Soybeans
Note: Even a trace amount of these foods in a dish could provokeanaphylaxis, a dangerous, life-threatening reaction that causes a sudden drop in blood pressure and swelling of the airways.
What Foods Can Most People Enjoy?
For the next office party, family gathering or church celebration, consider bringing a dish everyone can enjoy.
Appetizers
Dips are always a good choice for parties. Bring vegetables and corn chips to scoop up spicy olive hummus, guacamole and roasted corn, avocado and black bean salsa.
Side dishes
Side dishes are the food party hosts usually need most. Lucky for you, veggie sides are easy to make allergy-free. For starters, there's the traditional three-bean salad. But for something different, try black bean and asparagus salad simply dressed with olive oil and lemon juice.
Want to make something more exotic? Try a Middle Eastern chickpea salad that uses brown rice as the grain, or chilled spicy avocado cucumber soup made with Thai flavors.
Main dishes
If you're hosting the gathering, coming up with main dishes everyone can eat doesn't need to be difficult. You can grill burgers (leave off the cheese), chicken kabobs and steaks. Or, serve allergy-free fan favorites like oven-fried chicken, Italian meatballs or caramelized onion pot roast.
Desserts
No one can resist a delectable fruit platter or a tray of crispy rice cereal marshmallow treats (replace the butter, which has dairy, with coconut oil). Both of these are easy to make.
Another pretty and playful dessert is chocolate bark. Add cranberries, sunflower seeds and marshmallows for a fall take or candy cane pieces during the holidays. It's even tasty with just sea salt and chili flakes. Want something more substantial? These healthier brownies, made with whole foods, satisfy everyone's sweet tooth.
Really, these days there's no end to allergy-friendly recipes. Check out 101 Allergy Friendly Party Foods for even more ideas.
How To Stop The Spread Of Food Allergens?
During food preparation and serving, it's important there are no allergy-inducing ingredients nearby because of the risk of cross-contamination of food allergens.
Also, keep serving utensils contained to the safe dish – no swapping spoons.
What Are Signs Of Anaphylaxis?
Anaphylaxis is the term used to describe a life-threatening allergic reaction. Recognize the signs ofanaphylaxis– and know when to call for immediate medical help.
A severe allergic reaction usually starts within 30 minutes after exposure to an allergen but can sometimes take more than an hour. Anaphylaxis symptoms include:
- Hives, rash or itching
- Nausea or vomiting
- Lip or tongue swelling
- Coughing or throat discomfort
- Trouble swallowing or breathing
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Stomach cramping or diarrhea
- Feeling like something awful is about to occur
What Should I Do If I SuspectAnaphylaxis After Eating?
Fast action is essential when a severe allergic reaction occurs. Here are the steps to take:
Step #1: Epinephrine
Administer an epinephrine injection (EpiPen®), if available. This adrenaline-like drug counteracts the immune response. Many people with known food allergies carry one, so if someone is having a reaction, ask if they have an EpiPen on them. You typically inject the medicine directly into the thigh.
Step #2: Call 911
Call 911 and seekemergency care. It's crucial to get immediate care because anaphylaxis can quickly worsen, even if the person already received an epinephrine injection.
One dose may not be enough to control the symptoms. Also, a second wave of anaphylaxis can occur four to eight hours after the initial episode.
While waiting for 911 to arrive, you can loosen tight clothing and cover the person with a blanket. Turn them onto their side to prevent choking if they vomit. If breathing stops, begin CPR.
Step #3: Identify the cause
Identifying the foods and ingredients the person ate recently can help narrow down the cause of the reaction. If you can determine the cause, report it to the medical team. An allergy specialist will also want to know the possible foods that triggered the attack.
