If you have a latex allergy, you are probably very cautious any time you receive care from a doctor or dentist.
You probably also watch for clothing that contains latex or elastic.
You would never go near a “rubber†balloon. You may even know that you should avoid bananas. But did you know that your lunch can cause allergic reactions?
If you are allergic to latex and your food is prepared by someone wearing a latex glove, enough latex particles can be present in your food to cause a reaction.
Increasingly food preparation gloves are made from vinyl, but if you have an unexpected reaction, it is good to know all possible sources.
If you have a latex allergy, it is a good idea to find out if latex gloves are worn by anyone who handles your food at any restaurant or food preparation establishment. To keep yourself safe, call ahead.
Other things that can cause problems for those who suffer from latex allergies include
- These foods: kiwi, avocado, pineapple, fig, peach, grape, melon, papaya, plum, nectarine, cherry, strawberry, celery, tomato, potato, rye, wheat, chestnut, and hazelnut
- Toothbrushes (look for rubber grips)
- Ink pens with “comfort gripsâ€
- Adhesives including glue and paste and even some adhesive bandages
- ATM machines with rubber buttons
- Auto races (rubber and tire particles get into the air)
- Bath mats and rugs with non-slip backings
- Remote control devices that have rubber keys
- Eye pieces on cameras, binoculars and telescopes
- Older toys, including some older Barbie dolls
