Yes, the FDA has ruled that the top eight allergens (milk, eggs, peanuts, tree
nuts, fish, shellfish, soy and wheat) must be included on food labels with an
allergy warning. But this does not guarantee you are safe while shopping
allergy-free. There are particular food items and objects used to prepare
food that can be contaminated. Try to remember these every time you shop -
after all, it is hard enough cooking for someone with a food allergy - why take
risks when you don't need to?
Dairy
Although they are not supposed to, supermarkets often slice cheese and deli
meat on the same slicer. If you are allergic to dairy, it is best to
completely avoid the deli department. Also beware of tuna and prepared
meats, as both can have dairy added to them. If you are in a restaurant
and are ordering a slice of meat, be sure they do not cook it in butter for
extra flavor. And finally, by law, a food item can contain the label
"Dairy Free" even if it contains a small amount of dairy. So read your
labels very carefully!
Egg
Look out for fancy specialty drinks in restaurants. Many foam toppings
contain egg, including coffee drinks. Some egg substitutes contain egg
white, and some pastas either contain egg or were processed on equipment that is
contaminated with egg.
Peanuts
Arachis oil is peanut oil, so be sure to stay away from anything cooked in
it. Never buy artificial nuts, which often contain peanuts. And look
out for food items that have come in contact with peanuts. Some of these
are foods in specialty bakeries, ice cream shops or ethnic restaurants.
Furthermore, nut butters, chocolate candies and sunflower seeds may have
come in contact with peanuts at the factory.
Tree Nuts
Tree nuts are used in all kinds of foods, such as barbeque sauce, ice cream,
crackers, flavorings and cereal. A smoked sausage called Mortadella may
contain pistachio nuts. And look out for bean bags and hacky sacks, which
can contain nuts.
Fish and Shellfish
Avoid imitation crabmeat, which is actually made of fish. Also avoid
dressings and sauces that can contain anchovies.
Soy
Peanut Butter??? Yes. Peanut butter can actually contain soy.
Also look out for baked goods, canned tuna, crackers, cereal, infant formula,
soups and sauces, which may contain soy.
Wheat
Wheat can be found in hot dogs, imitation crabmeat and other imitation foods
made out of wheat flour. Avoid decorative wreaths, which often contain
wheat items.
