Back To School With Food Allergies Means Depending On Your PALs

For the 2.2 million school-age children who have food allergies and their parents, back to school means educating classmates and parents before the school year even begins.

In the school setting, avoiding food allergens can be difficult because they’re everywhere — in the cafeteria, on the playground, in the classroom.

Food is used in class celebrations, for art projects, as a reward for good behavior, and in math and science lessons. But if everyone learns how to Be a PAL: Protect A Life(TM) From Food Allergies, we can keep these children safe.

“Managing food allergies is a group effort,” said Anne Munoz-Furlong, Founder and CEO of the Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network (FAAN). “Kids tell us they rely on their friends to keep them safe. Some call them their best allies and protectors.”

There are five easy steps to Be a PAL:

1. Food allergies are serious. Don’t make jokes about them.

2. Don’t share food with friends who have food allergies.

3. Wash your hands after eating.

4. Ask what your friends are allergic to, and help them avoid it.

5. If a friend who has food allergies becomes ill, get help immediately!

Source: Medical News Today