Smart Allergy~Friendly Education (SAFE)

Newtons FRUIT thins - A tasty allergy~friendly possibility!

2012-02-24T13:40:00.001-07:00

Just found a new crispy cookie which my family loves. According to the ingredient list, they are EGG FREE, DAIRY FREE and NUT FREE. Once again, Nabisco has manufactured a product which may be an option for families managing multiple food allergies.

Newtons Blueberry Brown Sugar FRUIT thins, manufactured by Nabisco and distributed by Kraft Foods Global, Inc., Northfield, IL.

Ingredients listed: UNBLEACHED ENRICHED FLOUR (WHEAT FLOUR, NIACIN, REDUCED IRON, THIAMINE MONONITRATE {VITAMIN B1}, RIBOFLAVIN {VITAMIN B2}, FOLIC ACID), WHOLE GRAIN WHEAT FLOUR, SOYBEAN AND/OR PALM OIL, SUGAR, ROLLED OATS, DRIED BLUEBERRIES, BROWN SUGAR, FLAX SEEDS, FRUCTOSE, SALT, BAKING SODA, SOY LECITHIN, NATURAL FLAVOR.

CONTAINS: WHEAT AND SOY

For more information, visit: Newtons FRUIT thins or call, 1-800-622-4726

You may also like the following attributes of this particular product:

Made with Real Fruit
Good Source of WHOLE GRAIN (8g per serving) = 3 COOKIES
NO High Fructose Corn Syrup

Others flavors also include Cranberry Citrus Oat, Chocolate Raspberry and Fig and Honey.

I can't wait to try out these other options! Be sure to let me know if you enjoy them as much as we have.

Walgreens Substitute to Children's Benadryl Perfect Measure Pre-Filled Spoons

2012-02-21T21:25:00.002-07:00

I was thrilled to come across this recent find. For years, the easiest way to give my kids diphenhydramine HCl, was through the Children's Benadryl Perfect Measure pre-filled spoons. I had them at home, at school and always some in my purse.

Then, they disappeared. Nowhere to be found.

Until now! Through the allergy mom chain, it was brought to my attention that there was something similar available. So, off to my local Walgreens I bounded!

Walgreens Children's Wal-dryl Single Use Allergy, distributed by Walgreen Co., 200 Wilmot Road, Deerfield, IL, 60015.

The ingredients listed include:

Active ingredient: DIPHENHYDRAMINE HCl 12.5 mg *5mL - one pre-filled spoon...antihistamine
Other information; each pre-filled spoon contains: sodium 14mg
Inactive ingredients: ANHYDROUS CITRIC ACID, D&C RED NO. 33, FD&C RED NO. 40, FLAVORS, GLYCERIN, MONOAMMONIUM GLYCYRRHIZINATE, POLOXAMER 407, PURIFIED WATER, SODIUM BENZOATE, SODIUM CHLORIDE, SODIUM CITRATE, SUCROSE

For more information, contact: www.walgreens.com or 1-877-545-3635

Tonight we even had the chance to try these out. The kids tried something new which didn't appear to have milk in it, and sure enough, it did. As they got a bit panicky because their throats were scratchy and itching, I quickly tore off the tab on the top of one of these pre-filled, cherry flavored antihistamine spoons.

Fortunately, they only needed one and within minutes they were at ease. We made it through dinner, finishing homework and off early to bed.

I couldn't be happier. I will once again be restocking my home, the school and my purse with these pre-filled spoons!

Rhodes White Bread - A Dairy-Free Possibility for Your Home

2012-02-17T14:36:00.002-07:00

Are you looking for a bread which is dairy-free? The kosher labeling, pareve and OU, adds even more comfort for those of us needing to avoid milk products.

Here is a possibility which may work for your family. We are a dairy-free household and have been eating Rhodes rolls for years. A friend recently suggested I try their loaf bread since our preferred brand was no longer an option.

Serving freshly baked bread doesn't get any easier. Place loaf in a loaf pan with non-stick cooking spray, let dough rise from 4 to 7 hours and bake in a preheated 350 degree oven for 20 - 25 minutes! Absolutely delicious!

Rhodes VALUE PACK White Bread, manufactured and distributed by Rhodes Bake-N-Serv, Salt Lake City, UT, 84125.

Ingredients include: UNBLEACHED ENRICHED WHITE FLOUR (WHEAT FLOUR, NIACIN, FERROUS SULFATE OR REDUCED IRON, THIAMIN MONONITRATE, RIBOFLAVIN, FOLIC ACID), WATER, HIGH FRUCTOSE CORN SYRUP, YEAST, SOYBEAN OIL AND/OR CANOLA OIL, SALT, MALT, SODIUM STEAROYL LACTYLATE, YEAST NUTRIENTS (CALCIUM SULFATE, AMMONIUM CHLORIDE), ASCORBIC ACID, ENZYME (ADDED FOR IMPROVED BAKING).

Also stated on the packaging:

Pareve and OU labeling
CONTAINS: WHEAT, SOY
Individuals with food allergies: This product is manufactured in a facility that processes foods containing wheat, milk, soy, and seeds. Rhodes does not use any tree nuts, peanuts, meat, fish or shellfish.

I know that the statement above may be of concern for some, especially the fact that the facility also processes milk items. Be sure to make your decisions based on your family's needs.

For more information, you can contact: Rhodes Bread OR 1-800-876-7333.

This bread has been a huge hit in our household. We've eaten it with fresh soup, spaghetti and just simply slathered with jam and Earth Balance!

Do you have a dairy-free bread you'd like to suggest? Be sure to let me know!!

A Rudi's Bakery Giveaway you don't want to miss!

2012-02-13T12:50:00.006-07:00

Whether you are already a Rudi's Bakery fan or just have been wanting to try out some of their great tasting products, be sure to check out the following TWO giveaway possibilities!

1. As of February 6th, you can log onto (Rudi's Gluten-Free Facebook page), "Like” the brand and receive a $2 off coupon. Additionally, by visiting the Giveaway tab on the Facebook page, you can enter weekly to win prizes given away each day, like:

Rudi’s Gluten-Free breads and baked goods

a Cuisinart toaster

Crofter’s Organic jams

a Kodak digital camera AND

Gluten-Free cookbooks.

2. Smart Allergy~Friendly Education (SAFE) GIVEAWAY
ONE winner via Random.org will be chosen to win the following Rudi's Giveaway:

2 Free Product Coupons

a Rudi’s GF Branded Toaster

a Rudi’s GF Reusable Bag

All you have to do is leave a comment here on this blog page, or on my facebook page, Smart Allergy~Friendly Education, and tell me:

Which particular Rudi's bread do you prefer to use when making sandwiches?
Their standard bread, rolls, tortillas, bagels & English muffins,
OR their new bagel & sandwich flatz?

The winner will be announced Monday morning, February 20th!
Don't forget to leave me your email in case that winner is YOU! GOOD LUCK!!

As a huge fan of Rudi's products, I wanted to remind you that Rudi’s Gluten-free products are free of artificial ingredients, preservatives and genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Their Gluten-free products, including Original, Multigrain and Cinnamon Raisin Breads, Pizza Crust, Hamburger Buns and Hot Dog Rolls, are available nationally at natural foods stores and mainstream supermarkets.

Don't forget that Rudi's Bakery is NOT just for people eating GLUTEN-FREE.

Depending on what your dietary/allergy needs are, their products also appeal to those who are looking for MILK-FREE, EGG-FREE, SOY-FREE, NUT-FREE and KOSHER options, Rudi's Organic Bakery.

Have some concerns about nuts in Rudi's organic products? Reading over one of my previous blogs, Worried about Nuts in Rudi's Organic Products, may be useful information which can help you better decide if this product option will work for you and your family's needs.

For more information about their products and how to find them locally, be sure to visit www.rudisglutenfree.com.

Allergy~Friendly Protein Shakes? These may work for you!

2012-02-07T23:26:00.000-07:00

Getting the nutrition one needs while managing food allergies can be challenging. If one is allergic to peanuts, tree nuts and other animal proteins, your protein intake choices can become even more limited. I was recently introduced to some great tasting protein powder which I think many families living with food allergies may find appealing.

According to the ingredient list, these protein mixes are dairy-free, egg-free, and peanut/tree nut free. It does state on the packaging: Made in a facility that processes milk, eggs, tree nuts, soy and wheat. I know this statement may be a concern for many so feel free to follow up with Arbonne themselves. When I find out more in regard to their manufacturing practices, I'll be sure to post a follow up.

A local friend and entrepreneur, Jennifer Ludington, co-founder of ColorFuel Fitness and co-owner of A2O Fitness, has been focused on living and eating healthy ever since she left the finance world several years ago. Fortunately for her family, her current journey has helped her in figuring out great alternatives in helping to manage her family's food allergies.

She knows first hand the stress managing multiple food allergies can involve. She finds that the following easily digestible, pea protein based powder has been a wonderful alternative for her and her family.

Arbonne essentials, CHOCOLATE PROTEIN SHAKE MIX, distributed by Arbonne International, LLC, Irvine, CA, 92618.

Ingredients include: ARBONNE MATRIX BLEND (PEA PROTEIN ISOLATE, CRANBERRY PROTEIN, RICE PROTEIN), SUGAR CANE, COCOA POWDER, NATURAL CHOCOLATE FLAVOR, FRUCTOSE, CANOLA OIL, SUNFLOWER OIL, CORN STARCH, INULIN, SOY LECITHIN, FLAX SEED, STEVIA LEAF EXTRACT, CELLULOSE GUM, XANTHAN GUM, CARRAGEENAN. CONTAINS SOY FROM SOY LECITHIN.

For more information, contact: Arbonne On-line shopping or call 1-800-272-6663

This product also comes in a Vanilla Protein Shake Mix.

Live locally in Boise? Why not drop Jennifer a line via either of her websites, Color Fuel Fitness or A2O Fitness to learn more about these products. As a mom managing food allergies and a fitness guru, she could offer you great advice on the efficacy of these products.

Keep your eyes peeled for more allergy~friendly options within the Boise community!

Sunrich Naturals SOL - A Sunflower beverage which may meet your allergy~friendly needs!

2012-02-04T08:41:00.000-07:00

Looking for a nutritious, dairy-free, gluten-free beverage option? From what I can see from the ingredient list, it is also soy-free, egg-free and nut-free. Here is one of my latest finds which may turn out to be a fabulous alternative for your home.

This shelf stable beverage is made from sunflower kernels and comes in three flavors: unsweetened, original and vanilla.

Sunrich Naturals Original SOL Sunflower Beverage, distributed by SunOpta Septic, Inc., Alexandria, MN.

Ingredients listed include: FILTERED WATER, ORGANIC EVAPORATED CANE JUICE, SUNFLOWER KERNELS, SUNFLOWER LECITHIN, TRICALCIUM PHOSPHATE, ORGANIC TAPIOCA STARCH, EXPELLER PRESSED SUNFLOWER OIL, SEA SALT, XANTHAN GUM, GUAR GUM, NATURAL FLAVOR, CARRAGEENAN, VITAMIN A PALMITATE, VITAMIN D2, FOLIC ACID, D-ALPHA TOCOPHERYL ACETATE (NATURAL VITAMIN E).

For more information, contact: Sunrich, 1-877-237-4374 OR SunOpta

One serving of Original SOL contains:

70 calories

Vitamin E - 50% RDA

Calcium - 30% RDA

Vitamin D - 25%

Folic Acid - 20%

Since its inception in 1978, SunOpta considers itself to be 'an industry leader in the supply and distribution of natural and organic ingredients, raw materials, and consumer products'. For over 25 years they have been working with American farmers to create great tasting, wholesome organic and natural foods. The believe in creating sustainable American agriculture which will benefit future generations to come!

Be sure to visit their website to learn more about their philosophy, their focus on providing quality organic and non-GMO foods, and partnerships they have created with American farmers.

Want to know where you can buy this product? There 'where to buy' link can be found on the bottom right hand side of their product page, Sunrich Product Page.

SOL SunButter Smoothie! YUM!!!

We have found SOL to be a delicious addition to our smoothies! Add some frozen fruit or yogurt OR a few tablespoons of SunButter and your favorite dairy-free, soy-free ice cream! I loved watching my kids asking for seconds of this delicious and nutritional beverage!

It's amazing the enjoyment new products can provide for your kids and their friends:-)

Allerbling - A Durable Alternative to the Traditional Medic Alert Bracelets

2012-01-31T12:29:00.001-07:00

I have spent some during the past few months checking out the options available for allergy awareness bracelets for kids. I am impressed with the many possibilities out there.

One of the newer products which drew my attention was the Allerbling Food Allergy Awareness Bracelet. I think this one would be very appealing for younger children.

I recently received my Allerbling kit which included:

2 bands (2 different sizes)

1 medical cross

8 most common food allergy charms

Like many bracelets, it can be customized to your child's particular allergies.

Unlike many other bracelets, you personally can customize the band as your child's food allergies may change. Your child has outgrown eggs? Just pull out the symbol. They gained fish? Just add on the symbol. As my kids would say, "EASY PEASY".

If your child manages more than 4 food allergies, you won't be able to include them on this bracelet.  Then again, you will run into similar problems with most medical jewelry, if you manage multiple allergies.

The bands are not made of the typical metal often used for medical jewelry. You will find the soft, stretchy material makes the bands comfortable to wear, easy to put on and stay on.  The colors are eye-catching, the food allergy charms are clearly marked, and the symbols are easy to discern.  The charm in the center of the band is the traditional medic alert symbol.

For more information, contact:  Allerbling or at hello@allerbling.com

You can also follow them on their Allerbling Facebook Page for promotions.

Allerbling^TM donates a portion of the proceeds from every kit sold to Food Allergy Initiative, which is committed to improving food allergy awareness while raising funds to find a cure.

If you're looking for a durable and easy to identify food allergy medical alert bracelet, this just may be what your child will be willing and enjoy to wear!

My active, energetic son loves his!

Raising Allergy Awareness Made Fun with Local and National Support

2012-01-29T22:24:00.000-07:00

On Thursday, January 19th, the Stevens Henager College had a health fair at their Boise campus. I was thrilled to be invited to join Kelly Fletcher, our local FAAN representative, at an Allergy Awareness booth.

What a fun and enjoyable way to help raise awareness. It was made even easier with the support of some national supporters!

First of all, thanks to the national FAAN organization for all of the brochures and wonderful information they sent for us to have available.

Enjoy Life sent many samples which we had a great time handing out. We had crunchy chocolate chip cookies, crunchy double chocolate chip cookies, and Cocoa Loco Bars, and NOT NUTS seed and fruit trail mix. Some people were hesitant to try some of the items so I put them in a box and walked around to all of the booths. Who can refuse free items?! The NOT-NUTS trail mix was a HUGE hit! Seconds were often asked about.

Home Free Treats provided mini vanilla Gluten-Free cookies. We had some available for sampling at our table! We also had samples from WowButter, a wonderful alternative for peanut butter.

Kelly and I laughed at how how many people commented on 'how good these really are!', referring to all of the samplings available. I think people are always impressed that allergy~friendly products can truly be so tasty!

We were also pleased to offer coupons from SunButter, and Rudi's Bakery!

Our fun bag giveaway was sponsored by Enjoy Life. Here are some pics of two of our five winners! It's great to have winners who can really use and appreciate these items! Jackie's grandchildren are going to be thrilled and Debra is happy to have some new items to try out in her allergy home too.

Jackie Rule and Kelly Fletcher

Myself, Debra Woodworth and Kelly

All of the bags included additional samples and coupons from ALL of our sponsors along with their company brochures and some business cards from Jake's Gluten-Free Store, Sun Flour Mills and Mad Alex Products.

Thanks to all of our national and local sponsors for helping us to make raising allergy awareness such a fun and enjoyable experience for everyone!!

USDA Proposal looking to eliminate Labeling Specialists, those who monitor ingredients, including allergens, in meats and poultry

2012-01-25T10:30:00.001-07:00

The USDA is proposing to eliminate the review of all meat and poultry ingredient statements and formulas by their labeling specialists. The current USDA regulations require that all ingredients, including allergens, be listed in the ingredient statement of every meat product sold in the U.S. The subject proposal would end all review of ingredients statements by USDA labeling specialists.

Milk is frequently used as a binder in many products, often meats. This legislation would make it near impossible for those managing milk allergies to safely buy meats and poultry over the counter, with the exception of those products which are certified organic. This may not be such a bad thing, however, the financial cost can be an added burden for some.

In order to better understand the topic at hand, I have reprinted below the email forwarded to me from Michelle Fogg, President of the Utah Food Allergy Network (UFAN). I am hoping that many of you will take action by forwarding this on to as many people as you think will help to stop this proposal from being approved.

Thanks for your support!

Daniella Knell

From: Robert G. Forbes <gls@trademarkinfo.com>
Date: Wed, Jan 25, 2012 at 8:45 AM
Subject: USDA proposal to cease review of all ingredient statements

Over the past few weeks I have corresponded with you concerning the USDA plan to expand generic label approvals and eliminate review of ingredient statements and corresponding formula information on all labels. Based on a few comments filed on the proposal it appears there may be some confusion regarding this issue.

USDA is proposing to eliminate review of all meat and poultry ingredient statements and formulas by their labeling specialists. USDA regulations require that all ingredients, including allergens, be listed in the ingredient statement of every meat product sold in the U.S. But ingredient labeling is very complex and mistakes are made. When a USDA labeling specialist compares and reviews formula information submitted by the manufacturer against ingredients declared on the product label, undeclared allergen errors are PREVENTED! Products will not be approved and cannot enter commerce until the label is corrected and allergens are properly declared on the product label. USDA’s December 5, 2011 proposal will stamp out this consumer safeguard.

Generic approval means meat processors approve their own labels instead of USDA labeling specialists. USDA permitted limited generic approval beginning in 1996. Prior to 1996, all labels were submitted to USDA’s labeling specialists who approved them after confirming that, among other things, all the ingredients in the food were properly declared on the label. At first the industry was reluctant to approve their own labels because they weren’t sure they were correct. Many relied on the guidance provided by USDA labeling specialists and many still do today. Since 1996, more and more processors began to take advantage of the opportunity to approve their own labels. Over the past few years, USDA has more actively encouraged them to do so. In 1995 there were zero recalls due to undeclared allergens. Recalls for undeclared allergens have increased steadily ever since. By 2009, there were 14, in 2010, 16 ,and last year there were 41 involving at least 500,000 pounds of product, and this is just the tip of the iceberg. Many more undeclared allergen errors go unnoticed entirely because a generic label application form, formula, and processing procedures are not required to be submitted to USDA for review. Accordingly, the mislabeling is never discovered either prior to or after entering the marketplace. Since the product formula was never disclosed to labeling headquarters, no one but the manufacturer knows what’s in the product! This results in many unsuspecting consumers experiencing adverse reactions caused by ingredients they did not know they were ingesting.

The subject proposal would end all review of ingredients statements by USDA labeling specialists. Even if the processor wanted USDA guidance on whether everything was properly declared, USDA would not provide it. So far, many processors and their associations have voiced concern that without USDA labeling specialist review they may inadvertently put a product on the market that is mislabeled. That’s a big problem for the processor and a bigger problem for the allergy sufferer.

As I’ve said before, when USDA is bent on advancing their agenda they have a history of ignoring consumer and industry comments. If you feel this proposal will have an adverse effect, you should comment to USDA, but also we urge you to contact your Congressional representatives. The comment period ends February 3, 2012, so time is of the essence.

To obtain contact information for your Congressional representative you may access: www.house.gov and enter your zip code in the upper right corner under the heading "Find Your Representative". To contact your senators go to: www.senate.gov and select your state from the pull down menu in the upper right corner of the page.

Here is a suggested comment to forward to your representatives:

We are opposed to the USDA proposal published in the Federal Register December 5, 2011 which would discontinue review and approval of all meat and poultry formulas and ingredients statements by USDA labeling specialists. This proposal would increase the incidences of undeclared allergens and put the health and safety of millions of Americans with food allergies at greater risk. We ask that you help stop this USDA action.
You may review a copy of the lengthy proposal at (http://www.fsis.usda.gov/OPPDE/rdad/FRPubs/2005-0016.pdf )

From there you may also file a comment with USDA.

If you have any questions or would like to discuss the proposal please feel free to contact me.
Bob Forbes
Government Liaison Services, Inc.
200 N. Glebe Rd. Suite 321
Arlington, VA 22203
703-524-8200
1-800-642-6564

Sensible Portions Garden Veggie Chips - Another Allergy~Friendly Product from the Hain Celestial Group

2012-01-24T14:00:00.001-07:00

I recently came across some veggie chips which everyone in my home enjoys. According to the ingredient list, they are milk-free, egg-free, soy-free, and nut-free. I am not as gluten-free savvy as I'd like to be, but from what I'm reading this also appears to be wheat/gluten-free. I know if I've made a mistake here, one of you will let me know! Of course, they are fish/shellfish-free, items I prefer NOT to find in my chips!

The packaging states that this chip includes 'All Natural Ingredients', thus, the reason I could quickly discern whether this was a product possibility for my home. Having no strange preservatives or additives where hidden allergens may be lurking is always a plus!

Sensible Portions Garden Veggie Chips, manufactured for Distribution by the Hain Celestial Group, Inc., Melville, NY.

Ingredients include: VEGGIE CHIPS (POTATO FLOUR, POTATO STARCH, TOMATO PASTE, SPINACH POWDER, SALT, SUGAR, BEETROOT POWDER [COLOR], PALM OIL, TURMERIC), CANOLA OIL AND/OR SAFFLOWER OIL AND/OR SUNFLOWER OIL, SEA SALT.

It also states on the packaging: MANUFACTURED IN A FACILITY THAT PROCESSES WHEAT, SOY AND MILK. I know this may a concern for some, some be sure to do your research accordingly.

Need a few other reasons to try this product out? How about:

All Natural Ingredients
0g Trans Fat
No Preservatives
Kosher Certified

For more information, contact Sensible Portions Consumer Relations at: 1-800-913-6637 OR Sensible Portions Contact Link.

I don't know how many of their other items will be allergy~friendly in our household, but I'm looking forward to finding out more.

I can see Pita Bites, Veggie Straws, Potato Straws and Apple Straws, Oh my! We've got some fun detective work ahead of us!!

chipins - A Gluten-free option that many others will enjoy!

2012-01-19T22:26:00.002-07:00

Was at my local Jamba Juice this past week and came across a fun snack alternative my kids and I really enjoyed. Our friends, the Smiths, introduced us to this allergy~friendly option and we are already on the hunt to find them in a larger package!

Sea Salt chipins all natural popcorn chips, distributed by Popcorn Indiana, LLC., Englewood, NJ, 07631.

The ingredients include: CORN, SUNFLOWER OIL, SEA SALT.

It also states on the packaging:

All Natural
Whole Grain
ZERO Trans Fat
Gluten FREE
No Cholesterol
No Artificial Flavors
No Preservatives

For more information, contact: Chipins contact info or 1-800-707-4444.

Their homepage offers a variety of info about things such as their products, stores, shopping and nutritional facts.

From what I can see, this particular flavoring is also free of milk, eggs, nuts, peanuts, soy and, thank goodness, fish and shellfish.

Sadly, of their four different chipins varieties, this appears to be the only WITHOUT MILK. At least there's one tasty option we can enjoy and maybe you can too!

Snapea Manufacturing Feedback... Info to help you decide if this is a possibility for your allergy~free home

2012-01-16T10:44:00.000-07:00

A few months ago, I wrote a post, Snapea Crisps - What a delicious snack from Calbee America, one of my family's all time favorite snacks.

Their labeling has changed over the past few months with the addition of the 'made in a facility that also manufactures....'. I had some questions regarding their manufacturing processes and the concern of possible cross contamination of allergens. Below is taken from my email to the company:

"I am hoping to get more information from your company as to what cleaning processes you have in place or protocol you may follow to try to prevent cross-contamination of products. Many families will not even consider buying this product as soon as they see the statement 'made in a facility that also manufactures.....'. As a family who manages dairy allergies, we have never had a problem with this product. Is this allergen statement fairly new?"

A representative from their company had gotten back to me in a timely matter. However, it is I, who let time get away from me in sharing the feedback I received. For those of you deciding whether this is a product you want to consider, hopefully, the following feedback will help you in making your decision.

Hello Daniella,

Thank you for taking the time to contact us regarding our Snapea Crisps allergen control.

We receive many inquiries and are delighted to report that Original Flavor Snapea Crisps do not contain any ingredient or ingredient components made from wheat, rye, barley or milk products.

As you may be aware, we also manufacture a similar product called Snapea Crisps Caesar, You should be aware that this product does contain dairy components. In addition, we also have other wheat-based snacks that are made on the same manufacturing plant. As part of our Allergen Control Program (this include employee training, employee sanitation/cleaning training, separate storage space for allergen ingredients), we only schedule manufacturing of our Snapea Originals after a full clean-up of our manufacturing line to help control allergens that might contaminate the Original Flavor Snapea Crisps.

Our package must state allergen warnings according to FDA packaging label guidelines, even if it may be a minimal exposure. We understand your clients’ concern but unfortunately we can’t guarantee 100% allergen free manufacturing environment.

Thank you for contacting us and hope this information will help you and your clients.

If you have any other questions, please contact me anytime.

Sincerely,

Fumie Mihaly

Calbee America, Inc.

I then wrote back asking for some further clarification:

"Thanks for getting back to me. "You stated that "wheat-based snacks that are made on the same manufacturing plant".. Could you add a little more clarification? Do you mean that the products are made in the same manufacturing plant OR that the products are processes on the same equipment in the same plant? There is a big difference between these two statements."

Here is their follow-up response:

Hi,

Our Wheat-based snack is called Shrimp Flavored Chips: http://www.calbeeamerica.com/calbee-snacks-shrimp-chips.html

We do manufacture our Shrimp Flavored Chips in the same manufacturing plant but not on the same line. We have designated line only for Snapea Crisps and only for Shrimp Flavored Chips since their processing method is completely different and to minimize contamination.

We follow industry standard cleaning process (we use both dry and wet cleaning method, each machines and lines has specific cleaning procedure including designated cleaning tools for each line) to minimize contamination and annual 3rd party audit is conducted to ensure our cleaning up procedure is correct and up to date with any regulation changes.

We do everything we can to minimize allergen contamination but can’t control air contamination as long as they are made in the same plant.

Thanks,

Fumie Mihaly
Calbee America, Inc.
2600 Maxwell Way
Fairfield, CA 94534
Phone:(707) 427-2500 EXT.103
Fax:(707) 427-2900

We have eaten this product for years and manage dairy, egg, nut and fish allergies, along with a few others. To date, we have never had any allergy concerns. I know deciding to use this product will be a personal decision and I hope this feedback helps you out.

Dairy Free Mac & Chreese - A tasty option for those with milk, soy, egg,nut and and sometimes gluten-free allergies

2012-01-16T09:54:00.000-07:00

Looking for a MILK-FREE, SOY-FREE, NUT-FREE, EGG-FREE, VEGAN and sometimes GLUTEN-FREE mac & cheese alternative? Having grown up on mac and cheese myself, it was nice to find an option my kids could enjoy. This product has been a regular in our home for years. Be sure to check out all of the different varieties they offer, including the two gluten-free possibilities.

Road's End Organics Dairy Free Mac & Chreese Cheddar Style, distributed by Edward & Sons Trading Co., Inc., Carpinteria, CA.

The ingredient list states:
   WHOLE WHEAT ELBOW MACARONI: ORGANIC WHOLE DURUM FLOUR, WATER
   CHREESE MIX: UNBLEACHED WHEAT FLOUR, ENRICHED NUTRITIONAL YEAST (NUTRITIONAL YEAST, NIACIN, PYRIDOXINE HYDROCHLORIDE, RIBOFLAVIN (VITAMIN B2), THIAMINE HYDROCHLORIDE (VITAMIN B1), FOLIC ACID (VITAMIN B12),ORGANIC TAPIOCA STARCH, SALT, ORGANIC GARLIC POWDER, ORGANICGROUND YELLOW MUSTARD SEED, ORGANIC ONION POWDER AND ANNATTO POWDER
   ALLERGEN: CONTAINS WHEAT

This product is also certified organic by QAI (Quality Assurance International).

For more information, contact: www.edwardandsons.com or 805-684-8500.

Not familiar with Edward and Sons? Their website is filled with links about their different brands (many), products, personal story and philosophy,  recipes and a store locator link.  Just type in a local zip and you can find local businesses which carry their products. I was already aware that our local CO-OP, the Boise CO-OP, carries their items.

Looking for GLUTEN-FREE ice cream cones?  How about GLUTEN and DAIRY-FREE sprinkles? EGG-FREE and FISH-FREE rice snaps? I can't believe how many allergy~friendly products they carry which we can use in our house.

Be sure to take the time to visit their website. If you're a family managing food allergies, you won't be disappointed!

Now to find those sprinkles that look so tasty!!

Raising Food Allergy Awareness at the Stevens Henager Health Fair

2012-01-10T10:55:00.002-07:00

Is getting healthier one of your New Year's resolutions?

Why not visit the Stevens Henager Health Fair in Boise next week and get some great suggestions for successfully meeting your goals.

While there, be sure to visit the Food Allergy Awareness table. Along with sharing recent allergy news and educational materials, we will have samples and flyers from companies providing allergy~friendly products you may have never tried.

When: Thursday, January 19th, from 2:30 - 5pm
Where: Stevens Henager Boise Campus, 2nd Floor, 1444 S. Entertainment Ave.

If you stay long enough, you may even be the winner of one of our giveaways!

Kelly Fletcher and I look forward to seeing you next Thursday!

Looking for a Positive Way to Promote Allergy Awareness? How about a School Bake Sale!!

2012-01-09T13:26:00.002-07:00

Looking for a positive way to promote food allergy awareness in your community?

How about organizing an Allergy~Friendly Bake Sale at your local school! I have already begun getting all in order for our '2nd Annual Allergy~Friendly Bake Sale'.

I am a strong promoter of educating students at preschool and early elementary ages about food allergies. Children are so much smarter and accepting than most adults give them credit. For those of us who have children with food allergies, their peers become their strongest allies and supporters.

The 'Allergy~Friendly' Bake Sale is not an event so that those with food allergies can try different foods. It is an event where those with food allergies - those who often can't participate in the regular school activities such as hot lunch, bake sales and classroom celebrations - to 'showcase' their favorite desserts, snacks or baked goods.

The money raised from this can be used to purchase books, videos or any educational items thought needed for the school library and classrooms. Imagine, being able to have educational materials in every single classroom?

With a bit of support, it is the kids with food allergies who put this event together. They work the tables, collect money and have a great time watching their favorite snacks fly off the tables! The look of pride on their faces is priceless!!

Here's what you need to do:

Get approval from your Home and School Association and the Principal
Find families you trust to bake for you; We had those who managed and didn't manage food allergies bake

Absolutely NO NUT products are allowed

You can sell items during recesses and lunch

The kids with food allergies man the tables; I was able to have the older kids help and supervise the younger ones (this is also a great mentoring opportunity for the older kids!)
We had parent volunteers throughout the entire process
Contact local businesses such as: CO-OPs, pizza shops offering gluten-free doughs/sauces, gluten-free bakeries
Ask the local businesses to : A) donate products OR B) offer gift certificates/coupons; You man be surprised how many local businesses will get involved!!
Make it FUN! Have some contests to win prizes donated and announce the winners at the end of lunch or over the loud speaker at the end of the day!!

So, get out there and start planning!! Watch your kids smile as they get to be involved and show how good eating with different ingredients can really be!

Let's do our part in raising allergy awareness in our communities!! I would love to hear that there is one individual in every state organizing their very own 'Allergy~Friendly Bake Sale'!

Vanicream - A lifesaver for Eczema and other Dry Skin Challenges

2012-01-08T09:00:00.000-07:00

Trying to manage eczema or some other drying skin condition can be extra challenging during the winter months. I have tried other moisturizers throughout the years, but have found one particularly helpful.

Vanicream Moisturizing Skin Cream, manufactured by PSI, Pharmaceutical Specialities Inc., Rochester, MN.

Ingredients include: PURIFIED WATER, WHITE PETROLATUM, SORBITOL SOLUTION, CETEARYL ALCOHOL, PROPYLENE GLYCOL, CETEARETH-20, SIMETHICONE, GLYCERYL MONOSTEARATE, POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL MONOSTEARATE, SORBIC ACID AND BHT.

For more information, contact: Vanicream OR 1-800-325-8232.

You can also find the moisturizer in a Lite Lotion option.

There are many things I like about this product. The products are formulated without common chemical irritants such as dyes, fragrance and masking fragrance, parabens, lanolin, and formaldehyde. Also, the fact that it is non-greasy and non-irritating is a huge bonus. My kids have yet to cry when I put it on.

They also have other products such as shampoo, shaving cream and bath oil.

Having difficulty finding their products? Be sure to visit their website first, PISCO Store Locator. Most of the Vanicream products, especially the lotions, can be found at Walgreens, CVS or WalMart. Sunscreens can usually be specially ordered through the pharmacy. We were able to find an individually owned pharmacy nearby that carried these products.

You can always order them on-line through http://www.vanicream.com/ .

Hope this idea helps to take some of the itch out or your itchy skin.

Home Free Treats - Options Free of Eggs/Nuts/Dairy and Gluten

2012-01-06T13:52:00.000-07:00

Suggesting a new found allergy~friendly product is even easier when you're sitting here eating them. Seems as though one bag WON'T be enough!

The bakery they are made in is dedicated to being free of ALL NUTS, eggs and dairy and some are even gluten-free! Looking for a product free of sulfites, fish and sesame? How about kosher?

This just may be a a product to add to your 'must try' list.

I know, you're wondering, do they taste like cardboard? Do they fall apart like some gluten-free products? I must say, this gluten loving household has found even the gluten-free treats scrumptious!

Home Free Treats, manufactured by HomeFree, LLC, Windham, New Hampshire.

Below you will find the ingredient listing of our favorite cookies so far, home free Gluten-free mini Chocolate Chip Cookies.

Ingredients include: GLUTEN FREE WHOLE OAT FLOUR, ORGANIC EVAPORATED CANE JUICE, HIGH OLEIC SAFFLOWER OIL, NATURAL CHOCOLATE CHIPS (SUGAR, CHOCOLATE LIQUOR, NON-DAIRY COCOA BUTTER, ANHYDROUS DEXTROSE, SOY LECITHIN [AN EMULSIFIER], VANILLA FLAVOR), ORGANIC TAPIOCA STARCH, PEAR JUICE CONCENTRATE, BAKING SODA (SODIUM BICARBONATE), PURE VANILLA EXTRACT, SALT, BAKING POWDER, SOY LECITHIN, XANTHAN GUM, CREAM OF TARTAR, ROSEMARY EXTRACT.

ALLERGEN INFORMATION, as stated on packaging: Contains soy lecithin. Made on shared lines with barley using stringent cleaning processes and frequent testing for gluten. We create our treats in our own dedicated facility free of peanuts, gree nuts, eggs, and dairy, with carefully sourced and allergen tested ingredients. There also is no wheat, sesame, fish or shellfish in our facility.

For more information, contact: Home Free treats or 1-800-552-7172

Their website is full of information such as: About Us, Our Kitchen, Our Treats (listing all of their products), Our Store (to purchase on-line), and Contact Info.

Home Free also gives back to the community by donating a portion of their profits to organizations that provide food allergy research and education.

There are also Chocolate Chip Cookies, mini Chocolate Chocolate Chips Cookies, or Soft Gluten Free Oatmeal Cookies? Which one are you going to try first??

Oroweat Breads - MILK ALERT

2012-01-03T21:55:00.001-07:00

Went to the store recently and bought a loaf of our preferred 100% Whole Wheat Oroweat Bread, distributed by Bimbo Bakeries in Horsham, PA. Sadly, it looks as though it will be going the same route Grandma's Sycamores did a year ago.

Permanently... out the door! It now contains non-fat milk and whey, as many of their breads do now.

Even though we've been enjoying this brand for years, I usually double check the label.  However, this time I was in a hurry as I was heading out of town and wanted to be sure there was something at home for sandwiches.

Kudos to my husband for label reading! I tend to give him a hard time for not paying enough attention to ingredients and this time he proved me wrong. He called to ask if this was our normal choice of breads because of the obvious ingredients it contained.  I was astounded.

Sure enough, he was absolutely correct.

I went to the same store today to check out the Oroweat options. I found one loaf of Oroweat Sourdough Muffins. I have a feeling I may have just found the last edible loaf of Sourdough for our home. I hope they don't change their Sandwich Thins! They've become a household staple.

I called the customer service department at Oroweat in hopes I had just come across something unusual. Alas, NO such luck. The woman I spoke with confirmed that they had, indeed, changed their production of this product to include these two ingredients six months ago.

Just another reminder as to why we need to read the ingredients each and every time.

Now my next challenge. Can anyone tell me what other milk-free breads you are enjoying? Looks as though we'll be back on the hunt again!

Sunrich Naturals Organic Soymilk - Yet Another Dairy Alternative

2012-01-02T00:57:00.001-07:00

Recently, I was shopping at my favorite local discount store and came across yet another new soymilk option which both of my dairy allergic kids love.

What is even better is that my daughter, who I have a heck of time getting to drink enough calcium daily, LOVES this stuff! Especially the chocolate flavored soymilk.

Sunrich Naturals ORGANIC Chocolate Soymilk, distributed by SunOpta Aseptic, Inc., Alexandria, MN.

Ingredients include: ORGANIC SOYMILK (FILTERED WATER, WHOLE ORGANIC SOYBEANS), ORGANIC EVAPORATED CANE JUICE, ORGANIC COCOA (DUTCH PROCESS), CALCIUM CARBONATE, SEA SALT, CARRAGEENAN, ORGANIC GUAR GUM, XANTHUN GUM, ORGANIC VANILLA FLAVOR, VITAMIN A PALMITATE, VITAMIN D2, RIBOFLAVIN (B2), VITAMIN B12

It also states on the packaging:

CONTAINS: SOY
USDA ORGANIC; Certified Organic by Quality Assurance International
Lactose Free
Calcium Fortified
Vitamin Fortified

For more information, contact: www.sunrich.com or 1-877-918-0009

The following quote is taken directly from their webpage:

We believe in natural and organic wholesome foods, and are committed to producing products that promote the well-being of people and the environment. All of our Sunrich Naturals products are Organic and/or Natural, and produced with Non-GMO ingredients.

You can also find these products in plain and vanilla flavoring.

Here's the kicker.

One week I bought three 8.25 FL OZ individual boxes for a $1.00. That was $8.00 for a case which included twenty-four individual 8.25 FL OZ boxes. I only bought 2 cases.
At the same store the next week, I bought six 8.25 FL OZ for the same price. That equaled $4.00 for twenty-four 8.25 individual FL OZ boxes. I bought everything they had left!!
I paid almost $22.00 for a case, twenty-seven individual 8 FL OZ boxes, of a more well known brand.

You do the math! Unbelievable!!
Be sure to visit their webpage to learn more about who they are, their products and their growers.

These products are great for school lunches and snack times at school. My son likes them daily, with NO preference as to whether they are room temperature or cold, straight out of the fridge!

Here's to a New Year filled with great ideas and alternatives to help us all managing food allergies!

Keeping Nuts Out of the Classroom... Goodwill to All Managing Life-Threatening Food Allergies

2011-12-31T18:37:00.002-07:00

I have had some incredibly positive learning experiences throughout the past year. However, the one that has impacted me the most profoundly included my first allergy bullies.

Above and beyond everything else I have learned, is the understanding that we can all benefit from more knowledge and education about managing food allergies.

I have come to realize that unless allergies are a part of your personal world, they can be quite difficult to understand, especially when one is being asked to make concessions for someone else's child. Although milk is the most common allergy out there, to date, nuts are the most life threatening.

'Keeping nuts out of the classroom' is just one small part of managing food allergies, particularly once children are of preschool or kindergarten age. Every person is different. Some have sensitivities; some have intolerances; while others have systemic reactions, meaning one or more systems in their body will react strongly to an allergen they should be avoiding. This is where the life-threatening aspect can come in, and the worries increase ten fold.

For parents of children with life-threatening allergies, here are some common anxieties:

Will other adults in charge take his/her allergies seriously?
Will the adults in charge see my child's allergy as just an intolerance or sensitivity? Do they understand that 'lactose intolerance' is NOT the same as a 'milk allergy'?

Will the adults understand the difference between a mild vs. serious reaction? An itchy mouth may not mean the need for an epi-pen but multiple systemic reactions just may, ie, itchy mouth, hives, coughing or the obvious, projectile vomiting and/or labored breathing

Will other adults be too quick to give an epi-pen? It's always better to be safe than sorry, but these kids can be easily traumatized, especially the younger ones

Will other adults be too slow to give an epi-pen? It's a no-win situation, isn't it?!
Food exposure in the classroom and the cafeteria; let's NOT forget the computer keyboards, doorknobs and playground equipment, for those whose children are allergic by 'touch'
The emotional toll of being so different, especially for those who have multiple food allergies
Will my child be forced to sit at a table alone? Will they be able to participate in classroom activities or can they be included? Will there, again, be ingredients in the activities that they can't touch?

Will my child be made fun of by his/her classmates? or by his/her classmates' parents?

Without a doubt, managing food allergies starts at home with education and awareness.

However, the youngest ones with life-threatening food allergies often don't even realize the gravity of their situation, NOR SHOULD THEY. Truly grasping what a life-threatening allergy is, is an age appropriate concept. The time will come when they understand.

We do not want to raise fearful children who are afraid to go out into the world. Just like most parents, our hope is to raise happy and self-confident human beings. The surprising benefit of having these challenges so early on in their lives, is that I have found a majority of these children to be more compassionate and understanding of other's differences. More so than many adults.

Parents, educators, peers and other classroom parents are all part of the village members who help influence how well our children will or won't be accepted. With your help, we will help these children to successfully be able to take care of themselves.

On behalf of so many parents like myself, THANK YOU.

Thank you, for your simple kindnesses, such as sending in treats ALL of the children can eat safely. This means a lot to kids who often can't participate in school activities and bake sales because of their allergies.
Thank you, for being so understanding as to why accomodations have been made to help keep ALL of our children safe in the classroom. We understand the concessions you have to make in possibly not being able to send in your very favorite treats to share!
Thank you, for your phone calls late at night and early in the morning to let us know you will be sending in something so that we have time to also send in alternatives for our children.
Thank you, for your compassion in NOT making fun of our children.

To all of you, thank you for making sure ALL of our children know they and their needs are equally important. If we work together, it won't be so difficult to 'keep nuts out of the classroom' .

May 2012 bring you continued good health, happiness and much goodwill!

Rudi's Swag Bag Giveaway! Thank you to all of our Friends!

2011-12-28T09:21:00.002-07:00

As the end of the year is quickly upon us, I want to thank Rudi's Gluten Free and Organic Bakeries for their continued support. Their products offer wonderful alternatives to those managing gluten-free, egg-free, milk-free and nut-free allergies. Before 2011, I had never even tasted one of their products and now their Organic Cinnamon Raisin bread has become a staple in our home.

For those of you who were following Rudi’s on facebook, Rudi's Gluten-Free Bakery, you are already aware that they have been celebrating the holiday cheer with their 12 days of Gluten-free Christmas goodness. They have also been sharing Rudific holiday brunch ideas for the season such as their Gluten-free Gingerbread Spiced French Toast; see attached recipe.

Rudi's Gluten-free Gingerbread Spiced French Toast

In honor of Rudi's and the end of an enjoyable holiday season, I am offering this final giveaway on their behalf:

GIVEAWAY

1 Rudi's Swag Bag
All you have to do is leave a comment below or on my business facebook page, Smart Allergy~Friendly Education, and tell me which Rudi's gluten-free or organic product you've enjoyed over the holiday season or which one you would like to try out!

I will ring in the New Year by announcing a winner Sunday morning, January 1st!

Don't forget to leave me your email in case that winner is YOU! A winner will be chosen randomly through random.org.

Stealing a word from Rudi's themselves, I must add that you all have been "Rudific" and we both appreciate all of your support!

May the New Year bring you all continued good health, happiness and enjoyable meals!

So Delicious Coconut Milk Nog - A Delicious Milk-Free Alternative

2011-12-27T00:37:00.000-07:00

Looking for an EGG-FREE, MILK-FREE, GLUTEN-FREE, SOY-FREE, NON GMO VERIFIED AND VEGAN alternative to egg nog? It doesn't say it on the packaging, but I don't see any nuts in it either.

I'm proud to say I found one! This is another tasty 'Limited Edition' Holiday Flavor from the makers of So Delicious. We love their yogurts and sorbets so I figured we couldn't go wrong this seasonal option. I'm happy to say I wasn't disappointed.

So Delicious DAIRY FREE Nog, Coconut Milk Beverage, distributed by Turtle Mountain, LLC., Eugene, OR, 97402.

Ingredients include: ORGANIC COCONUT MILK (WATER, ORGANIC COCONUT CREAM), ORGANIC DRIED CANE SYRUP, NATURAL FLAVORS, ANNATTO FOR COLOR, KOSHER SEA SALT, CARRAGEENAN, GUAR GUM, LOCUS BEAN BUM, SPICES (NUTMEG).

It also states on the packaging: CERTIFIED BY ORGANIC CERTIFIERS, WWW.ORGANICCERTIFIERS.COM

For more information, contact: 1-866-388-7853 or www.SoDeliciousDairyFree.com

Their have four different links on their webpage. PRODUCTS shares more information in regard to their individual products; HEALTH discusses areas such as ingredient lists and product certifications; COMMUNITY refers to their contests, donations and event calendars; and, ABOUT US is their contact link.

We've enjoyed this seasonal beverage during our holiday celebrations. Hope you like it too!

A Holiday Survival Guide from an Allergic Mom with an Allergic Toddler - Guest Blogger, Teri Noto

2011-12-20T23:58:00.000-07:00

Teri has the unique perspective of growing up with food allergies during a time allergies weren't well recognized or accepted, as well as, being the mother of a food allergic toddler. She's a 4th generation allergy child on her mother's side and her father almost died of food allergies as an infant. She tells people that at her family's parties, you can't swing your arms without smacking a half a dozen people who are severely allergic to something. I was drawn to her humor from the start!

Teri was diagnosed with food allergies at 6 weeks of age. Eventually it was determined that she had too many allergies to foods to list. She was diagnosed as anaphylactic to peanuts/tree nuts at age 6 and fish at 8 years of age. She was more mildly allergic to milk from infancy till around age 10.

Her mantra is the following: "Allergic people and their families are best helped by realizing it is impossible to pour your own cup into someone else's when your cup is empty, and doing what it takes to keep everyone's cup full".

You can tell from the length and the content of this Survival Guide, that this is an allergy mom you want on your side! thanks Teri!!

A Holiday Survival Guide from an Allergic Mom with an Allergic Toddler

As a child, I loved Christmas. It was Rudolph that kind of ticked me off.

I was allergic to milk as a child—not severely, but bad enough where the increased volume of milk and cookies at family gatherings during the holidays posed a problem. When I consumed too much dairy, I would develop a rash on my face—most notably, on my nose.

Yes, I looked like Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, and a couple of my cousins weren’t hesitant to point it out. Sometimes quite rudely.

Why did I still do it? I think I just wanted to feel normal.

The holidays can be stressful for anyone. Decorating and shopping are time-consuming and may put financial pressure on us. Family relationships that might be strained the rest of the year may snap under the added stress of too much time spent together. Work parties can be a minefield of politics.

Food-allergic people and their families face additional stress because no matter what you celebrate, whether you are religious or not, food is a major component of holiday celebrations. The song may say “all I want for Christmas is my two front teeth,” but I’d say any allergic family would gladly trade all the gifts, candles, decorations, and rituals in the world to be able to participate in Holiday meals carefree.

I believe that it is quite possible for people with food allergies to live good lives; however, our definition of “normal” is going to differ from those who don’t have to be concerned about something as innocent as food harming or killing them. The holidays are no exception to this, and most allergic families face extra, sometimes exhausting, mental and physical legwork.

I feel that one of the main struggles of an allergic family is to convince others that serving any particular food is less important than making everyone feel welcome at the table, regardless of their medical condition.

Here are my suggestions for reducing some of the added stress food allergic families face.

A. Be prepared

What do you need to ensure that holiday parties are safe for you or your loved ones? Here are some suggestions:

Cook separate foods. Bring extra serving dishes. (Buying extra pieces/containers to make it easier on you to transport food may be well worth the expense.)
Make food in advance and freeze it.
Ask party hosts if you can arrive early to help clean surfaces before other guests arrive, or (would they) honor special seating requests.
Ask hosts to relocate pets or pets’ food (which can sometimes contain food allergens) to another area.
Ensure anyone with allergies eats something before the party in case the food there is not safe. (We did this a lot when I was a kid; I still do it for most parties)
Communicate with people in advance what contingency plans you have to reduce awkwardness.
Ask people to give non-food gifts or treats. Pack an emergency stash of allergen-free food.
Contact restaurants in advance to make sure they can accommodate allergies.
Map the nearest store or emergency room or keep your GPS maps up to date.
Ask your allergist and any communities of allergic people to which you belong for their tips on ensuring safe and happy holidays. A feeling of good preparation can reduce a lot of the stress of the holidays.
Also, don’t neglect to prepare yourself by prioritizing sleep and good food—you will need as much energy as possible to get through the holiday without snapping from the stress.

B. Prioritize and spread out the tasks

Do your gift shopping early, so you can focus on food as the holiday draws near.
Ask for help from others you trust to either assist with shopping and decorating or food preparations.

When you pack up decorations after the holiday is over, be as organized as possible to save time next year.
Remember that the most important thing about a holiday is to spend time with those you love.

C. Remember that different is okay

It may be hard to convince non-allergic family members in particular to change traditions, but try to be as positive as possible.

Some communication with family members, coworkers, and/or holiday party guests beforehand is usually helpful. It’s a lot easier to absorb the blow of changing a time-honored tradition if people know about the need for the change in advance.
You have a teachable moment for everyone in the family; winter holidays are typically about celebrating family and friends, love, support, making amends, and wishes of good health and good fortune.
What better way to show love, support, and the value of good relationships than by accommodating a family member’s medical condition? If nothing else, remind the rest of the family that the thing people will remember most about each holiday celebration is being together, not whether each table contained a dish of nuts or a cheese and cracker tray.
If it’s not possible to have allergen-free foods, don’t make a big deal of the special food that’s served for anyone with allergies.
Allergic family, friends, and coworkers will appreciate your making them a higher priority than things like having a perfectly clean house or personalized greeting cards.

Holiday traditions feel like they should be permanent fixtures, or the holiday somehow loses its meaning. Holiday traditions had to start somewhere. At some point, the rock-solid tradition of today was a new change that may not have been welcome by all, or may have started because of some other adversity.

Traditions are wonderful, but not when they interfere with peoples’ ability to participate. They should serve the family and community, not the other way around.

As a child, there were many times in which I had to be served something different than what the rest of the family or party was eating. What mattered to me was being able to take part in the celebration, not whether I was eating something that looked or tasted exactly the same as everyone else.

D. Combat stress by keeping expectations realistic

Keep your expectations realistic. A happy holiday is not going to be 100% joy, and that’s okay. As well-prepared as you are, plans can always go awry for you the same as they can for non-allergic people.
Stress is inevitable. Whether it’s the stress of getting your home ready for guests; cooking allergen-free foods; lugging around a stash of safe foods; keeping after other relatives to label foods appropriately; avoiding cross-contamination; reading food labels thoroughly; or, just ensuring that everyone is respectful of the need to accommodate the allergic person, something stressful will happen.
Choose your battles with the highest priority being what will truly make allergic family, friends, and coworkers feel the most included.
Remember that allergic people want nothing more than to be normal and have the same kind of holiday fun as everyone else.

E. Accept that some people just don’t get it

If people are being unkind or disrespectful, remember that it says a lot more about them than it does about you.
Happiness is a choice; don’t let people who are too immature to place the appropriate value on the lives of others choose for you.
When someone refuses to accommodate a food allergy or bullies family, friends, or coworkers who have food allergies, it can be very hurtful. It sends the message that food and the comfort of those whose lives are less complicated are more important than keeping the allergic person alive and healthy. It’s a dehumanizing message that all too often, non-allergic people aren’t aware or don’t care that they’re sending.

If you are concerned about how your children will feel at family gatherings, perhaps my perspective as an adult who had many food allergies as a child will help.

At a young age, I learned quickly that people could be downright cruel because I was different. My parents made sure that I knew that they valued me more than they valued the opinions of the family members who didn’t treat me well.
They let me know that sometimes the holidays mean spending some time with family members you don’t like so that you can also spend time with those you do like, and that some people will not change no matter how hard we try.
We cannot control family members but we can control how we respond and focus on our time with the family members we like.
My parents dealt with this with a mix of techniques, such as making preparations in advance, using humor to turn negative comments aside, sticking close to positive family members during parties, and focusing on the positive things that naysayers and bullies cannot take away.

If the bullying or lack of accommodation gets severe enough, consider changing where the holiday parties are located, drastically limiting the time spent with people who refuse to accommodate allergies, or cutting ties. This may be a painful step, but it may be less painful in the long run than exposing yourself/your family to that kind of negativity at a time that’s supposed to be joyful.

F. Remember that for an allergic child, comfort is crucial

An allergic child faces twin difficulties:

A) The change in routines that the holidays bring as well as,

B) The fear brought by copious amounts of possibly strange foods prepared in potentially allergen-contaminated kitchens by people who may not be as detail-oriented as you.

Do what it takes to make your allergic child comfortable, even if it means:

letting your child change out of her gorgeous holiday dress or his handsome holiday suit into ratty old pajamas midway through the party
lugging extra toys along
insisting on hosting the party at your home.

Do what it takes to make yourself comfortable, even if it means:

sitting at the kids’ table

avoiding alcohol in case you have to drive to the store for allergen-free foods
foregoing a fashionable clutch for a larger purse so you can bring along extra medications.

Allergic children may not have the wherewithal to express what they need to feel comforted or to show appreciation for your efforts to keep them comfortable, but they and you will feel better able to tackle any challenges when comfort is made a priority.

G. Focus on the positive

Approaching the holidays with a positive attitude may be difficult, and it may be hard to roll with the punches positively when plans go awry or people are disrespectful. I’m not perfect at this, despite the fact that I’ve dealt with food allergies my whole life.

The holidays are a time of joy as well as a time of forgiveness, starting fresh, and making positive changes. Focus on your plans, communicate with others, pick your battles, trust your instincts, cut out as much negativity as possible, forgive, and celebrate the good times.

With some planning, realistic expectations, a positive attitude, and the right priorities you can enjoy this time of year as much as everyone else.

Milk-free, Egg-free Gingerbread

2011-12-19T19:49:00.000-07:00

At this time of year, I love the aroma of gingerbreads baking throughout the house. It's something which gets me quickly into the holiday spirit.

As I tend to bake everything from scratch, I was thrilled a few years ago to find this simple recipe which I have adapted to our milk-free, egg-free, nut-free needs. The best part is that it tastes great!

Holiday Ginger Bread
1/2 C sugar
1 1/2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp ginger
1/2 tsp cloves
1/2 tsp salt
2 1/2 C flour
1/2 C milk-free margarine (ie, Nucoa or Earth Balance), room temperature

1 egg substitute - *2 alternatives (for this recipe, I prefer the flax substitute)

1/4 of flax (1 T flax + 3 T water; bring to a boil and let simmer 5 min., let cool and use);

OR 1 1/2 T oil + 1 1/2 T water + 1 t baking powder (mixed well)

1 C molasses
1 C hot water
Powdered sugar

1. Preheat over to 350 degrees. Use shortening/milk-free margarine and flour to prep a rectangular cake pan.
2. In a large bowl, combine sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, salt and flour. Stir together.
3. Form a well in the center of the mixture and add milk-free margarine, egg substitute, molasses and hot water. Stir until well blended and smooth.
4. Pour into prepared pan and bake 35 to 40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
5. Dust with powdered sugar after bread has partially cooled and Enjoy!
Happy Holidays and Happy Baking!

Egg-Free, Milk-Free, Nut-Free Royal Icing

2011-12-17T08:47:00.000-07:00

Looking for an egg-free, milk-free, nut-free royal icing for gingerbread houses? I was given a great recipe from my fellow friend and allergy-mom, Kristin Beltaos, owner of A Gift of Miles. I tried it out and it was a total success!

Egg-Free, Milk-Free, Nut-Free Royal Icing

Makes about 2 1/2 cups

2 oz. soy cream cheese, softenend to room temperature

2 Tbs. corn syrup

1 tsp. flavoring or extract (vanilla, peppermint, lemon, almond)

1/4 cup soy milk

4 1/2 cups powdered sugar

food coloring (for best results, use gel or paste like Wilton Icing Colors)

Using an electric mixer, beat together soy cream cheese, corn syrup and flavoring until smooth. Mix in soy milk. Slowly add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time until the frosting is at the desired consistency.

If you're decorating cookies, pipe the icing on using a pastry bag or spreading it onto the cookie with a spoon or an offset spatula. Allow the icing to dry for 24 hours before transferring the decorated cookies.

I made this two days in advance and it worked well. I took it out of the refrigerator about an hour before the activity to stir it and let it soften up a bit. Spreading it on the graham crackers we used was a breeze once the kids figured out how to do it!

Results, as you can, were fabulous!