Fourth of July - Tips for Keeping it Safe

When you have a food allergy, attending a birthday party requires some extra planning to make sure you stay safe.  America’s birthday is no exception.  This Fourth of July, be patriotic and prepared with my three tips for thriving on this holiday. 

Grill Master

Burgers and hot dogs on the grill are a big part of Fourth of July festivities for many people.  But, grills can pose a risk for cross-contact.  Cross-contact occurs when proteins of two foods mix because they have touched.  Cross-contact is dangerous for those with food allergies, as even a trace amount of an allergen can trigger a reaction.  If you will be grilling for someone with a food allergy, be sure that their food is completely wrapped in foil while on the grill, and plate food allergy friendly grill items separate from those that have come in contact with the grill.  Be sure to also use separate utensils when handling allergen free foods.

Don’t Leave Potlucks to Luck

Another popular Fourth of July activity is the potluck picnic- bring a dish and share with all.  Potlucks are a minefield for those with food allergies.  So many questions about ingredients, how things were prepared, and again concern about cross contact.  If you have an allergy and will be attending a potluck, be sure to pack safe snacks in case you are unable to eat food offered at the party.  And of course, bring a food allergy friendly option to share.

If you are hosting a potluck, talk to food allergic guests about supplying a few safe dishes. I think I speak for most when I say that we are happy to bring safe foods and reaching out to us means more than you know.  Or, work with guests to ensure that a few allergy friendly options will be available.  For example, forgo the homemade cookies and provide an allergy friendly option like Enjoy Life cookies which are free of the top 8 allergens.  Stick with simple options like fresh fruit and veggies that may be safer for food allergic guests.  

Another food allergy friendly potluck tip, organize the food so that allergen free items are on a separate table so that serving utensils are not accidentally used in the wrong dish or inadvertent cross-contact happens from foods being dropped or spilled as they are dished out.

Medicine Musts

When you have a food allergy you must always have your emergency medications with you.  Be sure to pack emergency medicines in a way that will keep them easily accessible and in a temperature controlled environment, EpiPens® should be kept within 68° - 77°F.  

Never leave your medicine in a car.  Heading to a picnic or firework show, make sure your medicine goes with you- for two reasons.  First, you need to maintain the appropriate temperature and we all know how sweltering a car can become.  Temperatures inside a closed car can quickly climb and compromise your medicine.  Second, in an emergency, you want to be able to retrieve your medicines quickly so that you can get your reaction under control.  Seconds count in a food allergy emergency so have your medicines with you at all times. 

Also, be sure to inform your friends or family members about what to do in an emergency.  Most children will be under the watchful eye of a parent at events so will have assistance immediately if there is an emergency.  But, if you are an adult or teen with food allergies, make sure someone else knows the location of your medicines and how to respond should you need assistance.

Wishing everyone a safe and Happy 4^th!

Product Disclaimer:

Thrive On Consulting does not sponsor or endorse the products listed.  Nor has Thrive On Consulting been paid to include these products.  Products mentioned here are provided as ideas and suggestions to help you Thrive On with food allergies.

If you find this post helpful learn more about Tami and her company, Thrive On Consulting, which helps families and individuals managing food allergies, and follow her on Facebook and Twitter