Halloween is a fun time for children and families, but it can also be a challenging experience for those with allergies. Many traditional Halloween treats contain common allergens such as nuts, dairy, or gluten, which can make trick-or-treating a risky activity for people with food allergies. However, with careful planning and awareness, Halloween can still be a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Here are some allergy-safe tips for trick-or-treating to ensure your Halloween is fun and safe.
1. Plan Ahead
Before Halloween night, take some time to plan your trick-or-treat route. Check if homes in your neighborhood are participating in the Teal Pumpkin Project, which we’ll explain later. Knowing which houses offer non-food treats can help you map an allergen-friendly path. Consider hosting a Halloween party where you can ensure allergen-friendly treats are available.
2. Communicate with Your Child
Education is important to manage allergies, especially during holidays. Educate your children on the importance of only eating treats once thoroughly checked by you and enforce a rule not to eat candy while out trick-or-treating.
3. Carry an Epinephrine Auto-Injector
Always carry an epinephrine auto-injector, even while trick-or-treating. Accidents can happen, so it’s crucial to be prepared for an allergic reaction. Ensure the auto-injector is easily accessible and that both you and your child know how to use it. It’s also a good idea to inform any adults or friends accompanying your child about where it’s located and how to use the auto-injector in case of an emergency.
4. Read Labels Carefully
Ingredients and manufacturer processes are constantly changing, so remember that previously approved candy may have different ingredients, so check the label every time. When you get home, make it a rule to read the ingredient labels of every treat before your child consumes them. Some candies may have hidden allergens or may be produced in facilities that handle nuts, dairy, or gluten. If the label is unclear or missing, it’s best to avoid that candy. You can swap out unsafe candy with safe treats when you get home.
What is the Teal Pumpkin Project?
The Teal Pumpkin Project is a national initiative that promotes the inclusion of all children during Halloween, especially those with food allergies. Launched by Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE) in 2014, the project encourages people to place a teal pumpkin outside their homes to indicate they offer non-food treats for trick-or-treaters. This initiative raises awareness of food allergies and helps ensure Halloween is inclusive for everyone.
How to Participate in the Teal Pumpkin Project
Participating in the Teal Pumpkin Project is simple and can make a difference for children with allergies and other conditions. FARE offers a range of free resources and printables on its website so you can participate and encourage your community.
Paint a Pumpkin Teal: Paint a pumpkin teal and place it outside your home where it’s easily visible to trick-or-treaters. This simple decoration signals to children with food allergies that your home is all-inclusive. You can also hand out flyers in your neighborhood or hang a sign in front of your house to spread the word.
Offer Non-Food Treats: Stock up on stickers, bookmarks, playing cards, small toys, glow sticks, or other fun non-food items. Keep these in a separate bowl from any food items to hand out on Halloween night.
Spread the Word: Let your neighbors, friends, and local businesses know about the Teal Pumpkin Project and encourage them to participate. You can also share information on social media to help raise awareness.
List Your House: You can add your house to the Teal Pumpkin Project map on FARE’s website to help families find safe trick-or-treating locations in your area.
With a little preparation and awareness, Halloween can be a safe and enjoyable experience for children with allergies. Participating in initiatives like the Teal Pumpkin Project helps foster inclusivity, ensuring all children can safely join in the Halloween festivities.
Schedule an Appointment with a Richmond Allergy Doctor
Regular visits to an allergy doctor at Richmond Allergy with appropriate allergy testing can help ensure accurate diagnosis as well as effective treatment plans for managing allergies and asthma. Your journey to relief starts with a visit to your trusted Richmond Allergy allergist. Don't hesitate to reach out for help—call our office at (804) 285-7420 to schedule an appointment.
