7 Ways to Make Halloween Safer for Kids with Food Allergies

Halloween can be a season of costumes, scary movies and candy. But for parents of kids with food allergies, there is a different reason to be frightened: Six of the top allergens are in high circulation around Halloween. Wheat, milk, soy and even egg are in many chocolates, caramels and fruit chews. Even more contain or are processed on the same equipment as peanuts, walnuts, almonds and cashews. Even small amounts of these allergens can cause an anaphylactic reaction in kids who are allergic to them. Parents also should be on the lookout if their child is allergic to sesame. Sesame oil may make an appearance in candy corn, and sesame seeds are an ingredient in some treats.

Parents should talk to their children about allergens that may be in specific foods, including Halloween treats, and discuss strategies for attending parties and trick-or-treating. It's important for kids to have a plan, including what to do if they think they are having an allergic reaction. Parents can make sure a responsible adult is at events and aware of their child's allergies.

Consider these tips for a safe, allergen-free Halloween.

Read All Labels

This is good advice for all candy, but especially true for miniatures or snack sizes. Mini versions are sometimes processed in a different facility than regular-sized candy. This can affect the allergens present.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires food labels to list major allergens in the ingredients list. These must be listed with common names they're known by — such as "lecithin (soy)" or "whey (milk)." Some ingredient lists may say "Contains …" followed by an allergen, such as “Contains Wheat.” Some packaging includes a note following the ingredient list that states "May contain …" and then the name of the allergen. However, this labeling is completely voluntary, so a product may or may not include that statement or the allergen. Play it safe and read the ingredients list every time, even for products you typically consider "safe." Many mini or bite-size candies don't contain an ingredients list. Look up the ingredients for these products online to ensure they are safe for your child to eat. If a product is homemade or has no label, throw it out.

Talk to Your Neighbors

Neighbors and friends may want to buy allergen-free candy but don't know what to get. Or, they may not even know that your child has a food allergy. Share information on what to look for when purchasing candy. You may even offer to provide them with "safe" candy they can hand to your trick-or-treater.

Look for the Teal Pumpkins

Created by Food Allergy Research & Education in 2014, the Teal Pumpkin Project raises awareness and encourages safe options for trick-or-treaters with food allergies. Participants put a teal pumpkin outside to show they have safe, non-food treats available.

Instill the "Ask First" Rule

For young children, carry their candy for them while trick-or-treating. This can help reduce the chance they eat something with an allergen. Remind children to ask you before eating anything. Older kids should learn to always read the label before eating any packaged food or candy. If in doubt, throw it out, trade it or give it away. It's helpful to make a list of packaged treats that are safe based on individual allergies.

Safe at School

If your child's class celebrates Halloween, take an active role in planning the event. Talk to the teachers, volunteer to organize the party, bring in treats or non-food goodies or plan to attend in person. Don't forget to double-check your child's emergency action plan and epinephrine pens are up-to-date.

Trade or Donate

Before trick-or-treating, make a plan with your child to swap any unsafe candy for another treat, such as a safe candy, a book or small toy. Or, donate candy to the local food pantry or other charitable organization.

Start a New Tradition

Host a costume party at your house, so you are in charge of treats. Consider forgoing candy altogether and offer trick-or-treaters a variety of non-food items such as stickers, glow sticks, bouncy balls or fake mustaches.