Joel Stein - Possible Food Allergy Advocate?

Joel Stein has probably become a household name by now for those in the food allergy community. If you haven't yet heard of him, Joel Stein is the man responsible for the article entitled "Nut allergies - a Yuppie invention". The article was published in a January 2009 addition of the "Los Angeles Times" creating a lot of negative buzz in the food allergy community.

In the article Stein accused parents of creating their child's peanut allergies as a way of getting attention or as he puts it, "Your kid has a parent who needs to feel special." You can see why the article didn't go over very well with parents of peanut allergic kids. In fact it didn't sit right with anyone living with food allergies period.

It is clear that the lack of research and knowledge on the subject of food allergies played a key role in Stein's opinions that, "it is strange how peanut allergies are only an issue in rich, lefty communities." However, Dr. Robert A. Wood author of "Food Allergies for Dummies" writes that "some of the highest rates of asthma and allergies are in the inner city...". This
suggesting that food allergies are increasing across the country, across social classes, and across all racial divides.

Obviously also unaware of the fact that even the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) doesn't track the number of deaths caused by food allergies. Stein went on to claim, "Since food allergies kill about as many people as lightning strikes each year" we probably don't need  to put "may contain" warning labels on products. He also deemed it unnecessary to ban peanuts from schools.

Here is the twist. Joel Stein recently wrote an article for "TIME Magazine" appropriately entitled, "A Nut Allergy Skeptic Learns the Hard Way". It is in this article that Stein announces that his 1 year old son had been diagnosed with a nut allergy.

Upon reading this new article I have to admit I did have a brief moment of joy as I thought to myself, "karma is a bitch." This feeling was short lived though as I then thought of his son and how he, as well as every other child with food allergies, didn't ask for this. I then started to view Joel Stein as one of us. He is now the father of a child with a life-threatening food allergy. Does he know yet what he has stepped into? Probably not.

It will take some time before Stein and his wife really realize the challenges of having a food allergic child. Stein writes, "We're not banning nuts from our house, and we aren't going to send Laszlo to a nut-free school." Only time will tell.

My hope is that Stein will now use his platform as a way to educate others and create awareness about food allergies. He has the opportunity to become a powerful advocate for our children. Having publicly been on the opposing side of this new epidemic I beleive Stein has the ability of getting the message through to people we as a community otherwise would not be capable of reaching.

That said, I wish the Stein family the best of luck!

Finding an Allergy Aware school

Sending a child to school for the first time can be exciting but for those with children who have food allergies this can be very scary. It is important to find a school that is capable of meeting your child's needs.

I have compiled a list of possible questions to ask when searching for an allergy aware school. Be aware of the manner in which your questions are answered. Try and find a school based on how comfortable you feel regarding, not only their knowledge of food allergies, but also their willingness to communicate and adapt to your child's needs.

• If your child will be eating lunch at school ask for a copy of the lunch menu. Even if your child brings their own lunch it is important to be aware of what others around him will be eating.

• Ask about peanut/allergen free lunch tables. If these are an option you may want to ask if they have a lunch buddy system to ensure your child isn't left alone at the table feeling isolated from their classmates.

• How are classroom celebrations and other classroom activities such as field trips conducted? Do children bring in food from home? Is an ingredient list/label required for foods brought into the classroom? Will you be able to attend classroom celebrations and/or chaperon field trips?

• Who is trained to use the epi-pen? It should be more then just the school nurse. The nurse isn't always on site or may be unavailable.

• You will also want to know where the epi-pens and other medicines are stored and who has access to them. If they are kept in a locked room, cabinet or drawer, who has the key? What if that person is gone for the day or unavailable?

• What is the plan for accessing medications during a disaster or school lock-down? Is this practiced as part of their emergency drills? Also be aware of the ingredients in your child's earthquake/emergency food supply kit if applicable.

• If your child will be riding the bus, is there a no food rule for the bus? Is the bus driver trained in recognizing an allergic reaction and in using the epi-pen?

For additional information view: School Guidelines For Managing Students With Food Allergies.

Another helpfull resource is the book "How to Manage Your Child's Life-Threatening Food Allergies" by Linda Coss. There is an entire chapter on Preschool as well as a chapter on School and Day Care.

If you know of a school that is doing an outstanding job in the way they handle food allergies let me know! Provide the name and location of the school along with a brief summary of why you think they should make our list of Peanut/Tree-nut free and Allergy friendly schools.

Label Reading

Shopping with food allergies can be a daunting task. Strict avoidance of your allergen(s) is the only way to prevent an allergic reaction. The best way in avoiding these allergens is by diligent label reading.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires food manufacturers to list common food allergens in "simple terms" on labels taking some of the guesswork out of label reading. The top eight food allergens included in the labeling requirements set in place by FALCPA are: Eggs, Fish, Milk, Peanuts, Shellfish, Soy, Tree Nuts, and Wheat. These allergens must either be listed after the  ingredient that contains the allergen or as a blanket list following the ingredient list i.e. "contains".

Manufacturers are not required to include warnings about food allergens accidentally introduced during manufacturing or packaging though some companies voluntarily list these in an advisory such as "manufactured in a factory that also processes..." or "may contain".
Do not rely on these advisory labels as they are not mandatory.

•  It may be helpful to carry a list of alternative names for your allergen(s) in case the manufacturer overlooked the required use of "simple terms" in the list of ingredients.

•  Read the labels every time, even on products you purchase on a regular bases. It is possible that the ingredients have changed or the label has been updated. Also note that different sizes of the same product (ex. mini candy bars vs the regular or king sized) are often made with different ingredients and/or processed in different facilities.

• Never go by the front of the label. The FDA has few rules for terms like "gluten-free". Sometimes packages make claims as being free from allergens your allergic to but are manufactured on shared lines as allergens.

• Last but not least, when in doubt call the manufacturer.

Energy/Enhancement Drinks and Milk Allergies

Beware of energy and enhancement drinks that may contain whey protein such as the new Gatorade Recover 03 and some varieties of Crystal Light Enhanced. Read these labels carefully and be sure to check with manufacturers of these "sports" drinks about possibilities of cross-contamination. Just another thing to watch out for in the wonderful world of food allergies.

Other related posts:  
Finally some answers from Silk
Food Allergens In Unexpected Places
Could your Duraflame be more then just a fire hazard?
Reminder in the midst of the Hostess recall
Beware: The Maraschino Cherry

Beware: The Maraschino Cherry

My tree-nut allergic son has had maraschino's on various occasions with no problems but after learning about the use of almond extract being used to recreate the almond flavor of the original maraschino cherry I decided to do a little research. 

What exactly is a Maraschino cherry? Cherries where once marinated in a liqueur called maraschino. This maraschino liqueur was made from the juice, pits (which imparted an almond-like taste) and leaves of the marasca cherry. Thus, the maraschino cherry was born. They originated as a delicacy in Europe hundreds of years ago and where later introduced to the United States sometime during the late 1800's where they were served in fine bars and restaurants. By the early 1900's, maraschinos were all the rage in the United States. Various recipes were used; some including almond extract to try and duplicate the flavor of the imports.

These days the maraschino consists of primarily sugar, syrups and red dye (yum). Not much of a delicacy. However It's best to ere on the side of caution and read these labels carefully especially should you come across a high-end or gourmet varieties. I did contact Kroger (the brand that happened to be in my fridge) and they reassured me that there was no use of any almond flavorings in their maraschino cherries.

Other related posts:  
Finally some answers from Silk
Food Allergens In Unexpected Places
Could your Duraflame be more then just a fire hazard?
Reminder in the midst of the Hostess recall
Energy/Enhancement Drinks and Milk Allergies 

Grilling with Food Allergies

Summer is officially here which means the season for grilling is upon us. For most people this means good times outdoors enjoying the sunshine with family and friends and of course great food and BBQ. But for those of us living with food allergies a gathering of friends and family around the grill can lead to anxiety and fear brought on by hidden dangers associated with food allergies and barbecues.

Here are a few suggestions to make your next BBQ an allergy friendly event:

• Make sure your host and/or guests are aware of your allergens in order to help with menu planning.

• Arrive early and offer to help with the prep work. This will help to ensure that proper precautionary measures are taken.

• Ask to read all labels. Marinades and barbecue sauces often include unexpected common allergens such as nuts, corn, soy, wheat, eggs, sesame, and even dairy. 

• Always offer to bring your own allergy safe dish. This will not only guarantee you a safe food alternative but will also help to take some anxiety away from your host.

 Cross-contamination can cause a major concern when barbecuing especially when the grill in question is at a campsite or park.

• When possible use foil packs or a cast-iron skillet to create a barrier between the grill and your food when proper cleaning of the grill can not be guaranteed. Make sure to use a heavy-duty foil and/or multiple layers to keep the foil from tearing.

• Always cook the allergen-free food on the grill before any foods that include allergens.

• Bring additional sets of grilling tools, serving utensils, and serving bowls/platters. Remember that these are all potential vectors of cross-contamination as well.

Make sure to plan ahead and take extra caution and you too can enjoy your next BBQ. Have fun grilling!

Try these food allergy friendly recipes: Crunchy Oat Cookies and other Worry Free Treats & Meatless March - Spaghettie Squash Recipes

You may also like: Label Reading & Food Allergens In Unexpected Places

Angel Food Ministries - Allergen Free Food Box

It is no secret that food allergies can be expensive. A recent article in the New York Times
explores the heavy financial burden parents face when a child is given a diagnosis of food allergies. How can we continue to meet our child's special diet needs in today's struggling economy? Luckily there are organizations out there willing to help.
I recently came across Angel Food Ministries, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing food relief and financial support to communities throughout the United States. Families are given the opportunity to purchase a $30 box containing approximately $65 worth of food (enough to feed a family of four for a week).
Organizations like Angel Food Ministries have been popping up around the country in hopes of helping families effected by today's troubled economy. There are no qualifications, minimums, income restrictions, or applications. But what sets Angel Food Ministries apart from others is their choice in menu's. They now offer a 5lb allergen free food box for $23. The box consists of frozen foods free from peanuts, soy, milk, eggs, fish, crustacean, tree nuts, and gluten. You can view this month's menu here.
If you have purchased an allergen free food box from Angel Food Ministries I would love to hear your comments about the food and their services.This just might be the extra bit of help some of us need to get back on our feet.

Update:
I contacted Angel Food Ministries with questions regarding cross contamination and labeling and received a response within 24 hours. I have attached a copy of their response below:

Hello,

The allergen food is made in a dedicated facility.  There is no cross contamination.
 I am not sure if they come with a full ingredient label but the ingredients are :

Battered with-water, white rice, brown rice, modified tapioca, starch, flax seed,
sugar, salt, spices, dehydrated garlic, spice extractives and oleoresin paprika.

Breaded with white rice, brown rice, modified tapioca starch, flax seed, sugar,
dextrose, salt, spices, dehydrated garlic, spice extractives and oleoresin paprika.

Eliminating the following food allergies- gluten-free) wheat, oats, rye malt & barley)
Soy-free
Peanut-free
Tree nut-free (walnut, cashew, almond, etc..)
Egg-free
Milk-free (casein, etc..)

Thanks and hope this helps!