GLUTEN FREE

Food allergies? Find safe Halloween trick-or-treat spots

Ann Byrne
community blogger


Ann Byrne, blogger

According to FARE (Food Allergy Research & Education), 1 in 13 children have to cope with food allergies and the holidays must be especially trying.

Although we discuss gluten-related topics here, today we will encompass the Top 8 allergens: dairy, peanuts, tree nuts, soy, shellfish, fish, eggs and wheat. Yes, gluten is technically not an allergen, but we will take being lumped in with anything that helps people recognize the danger that ingesting gluten can have on our celiac and/or gluten-intolerant children.

Each and every child with dietary restrictions deserves the experience of safe trick-or-treating on Halloween. In the past few years, the folks at FARE started a wonderful way for the kids to enjoy themselves every Oct. 31. It’s called the Teal Pumpkin Project and here is the “how to”:

  • Provide non-food items or allergy-free candies. Examples of allergy-free candies include Smarties, Nerds and Vermont Nut-Free Chocolates.
  • Paint a pumpkin teal with some poster paints from any hobby store and place it on your doorstep the day of Halloween.
  • Go to foodallergy.org for a printable sign explaining the significance of your •teal pumpkin.
  • Visit their website and donate to support the Teal Pumpkin Project and receive a free gift, a “Teal Pumpkin Proud Supporter” window cling (while supplies last).

The Teal Pumpkin project logo. The Teal Pumpkin Project and the Teal Pumpkin Image are trademarks of Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE).

There is a super feature that can tell you exactly where other Teal Pumpkin Project supporters will be handing out appropriate items. At foodallergy.org, you will find an interactive map marked with teal icons that tell you the address of homes and businesses participating in your area. There are icons across the world from Finland to Fishkill. Including your own home on the map is an easy process.

Teal Pumpkin Project Fever Map 2016

Most kids love a craft project, so why not cover your table with a vinyl tablecloth from the dollar store, invite other kids and let them paint their own teal pumpkins. What a fun way for your child to share with their friends exactly why “Teal is the new orange.”

Contact Ann Byrne atannelizabethbyrne@gmail.com