Holiday Food Allergy Safety Tips for Families

Understanding Food Allergies vs. Sensitivities

• 💡 A true food allergy involves the body recognizing a substance as dangerous and mounting a potentially life-threatening response, such as anaphylaxis.
• 🧠 In contrast, a food sensitivity is a digestive issue that is not life-threatening upon accidental exposure.
• ⚠️ It's crucial to differentiate these terms when communicating with hosts to ensure safety.

Navigating Family Gatherings

• 🗣️ Initiate conversations about food allergies before attending holiday events to inform hosts and family members.
• 🚫 Be aware of hidden ingredients in dishes and potential cross-contamination risks, even from seemingly innocent items like nut bowls.
• 🍸 Cocktails and mocktails can also contain allergens like egg whites, dairy, or nut liqueurs, and shared shakers pose a cross-contamination risk if not properly cleaned.

Latitude Food Allergy Care

• 📍 Latitude Food Allergy Care specializes in treating food allergies through oral immunotherapy (OIT), a process to desensitize individuals and build tolerance.
• 🏥 The clinic has three locations in Westwood, Sherman Oaks, and Irvine, with a new Pasadena clinic opening in January to increase access to this care.
• ✅ OIT has been life-changing for many children, allowing them to eat foods they previously avoided and live without constant fear.
• 🌐 For more information, visit latitudefoodallergycare.com.