Food Allergy Life: It's complicated, I'll bring my own food

I stole this line from my friend’s waste-reducing party invitation tool called Siitch. Well, it’s not a line actually, it is an option a guest can choose when they RSVP to a Siitch invitation, which is quite the beloved line for those with food allergies. Therefore, this post is for all of you fabulous hosts this holiday season! I would like to briefly let you in on few food allergy secrets.

Given today’s stats of 32 million Americans with food allergies, I can safely guess you will have family members or friends managing this invisible health condition. Or, you might have people you love with celiac, heart disease or other conditions impacted by food. These short secrets just might make you the hero while keeping everyone healthy, happy and safe while you raise up your glass of bubbly, apple cider or oat milk!

Secrets for hosting people with food allergies and special diets

1. Ask guests about any special diets. BUT, (here’s the best tip – ever), asking about them does not mean you need to cook for them. Actually, we don’t like it when you cook! Ouch? Nope. We have a really hard time in our homes checking out every single ingredient to confirm allergen safety. So, we don’t expect you to become masters instantly, especially when you are hosting a party. But, we love it when we can bring our own safe grub to enjoy. This is why we love the “It’s complicated, I’ll bring my own food” option Siitch uses!
2. Consider the power of small children spreading allergens around. Little cute and fast-moving hands can easily transfer “cheese dust” from a low placed bowls to basically your entire home – including the buffet table. Therefore, strategically place allergens out of reach of little ones. Or, if possible, skip the allergen and enjoy other yummy food.
3. Nothing makes our heart sing when you ask us to bring a safe dish to share with others. But, for food-allergic types to stay safe, it is critical that they take the first serving. Ms. Manner’s might cringe, but this keeps cross-contact issues at bay (think serving spoons getting mixed up)!
4. You can ask us anything about our food allergies. We like to share, educate and be included. You won’t embarrass us. We love parties too and the more you know, the safer everyone will be.

Now you have a few tips to go enjoy a tasty and fun holiday season. And, if you have a fleeting moment, do check out Siitch, I’m biased, but it is a very forward-thinking party tool in terms of inclusive eating while saving money and reducing waste!