Our hearts go out to everyone impacted by hurricane season, and most recently, Hurricane Helene. Natural disasters like hurricanes can leave families without power and disrupt deliveries of food and medicines. Because of the widespread destruction caused by Helene, the situation in North Carolina is dire.

Food provided by shelters during an emergency may not be safe for kids with food allergies. Even if the ingredients are safe, there may be the potential for cross-contact with their food allergens. This makes access to safe allergy-friendly foods essential in times of emergency.

Access to lifesaving medicine like epinephrine and emergency care can also be limited during and after natural disasters.

Hurricane Helene Relief Efforts:

Local groups are collecting donations for food allergy families in need:

• FOODiversity is partnered with Manna Food Bank. Manna serves more than 200 agencies, including food pantries and care centers for older adults and children. They will hand out products to organizations and households with food allergies, celiac disease, and other food-related conditions. People can buy food items from their Amazon Wishlist that will be donated for hurricane relief efforts.
• PAKCharlotte (Parents of Allergic Kids) in North Carolina has set up donations of allergy-safe foods for people in need. They have secured a delivery location in Boone, North Carolina. People can buy food items from their Amazon Wishlist for easy donations.

ARS Pharma, the company that makes neffy, announced they are donating 1,700 neffy prescriptions to impacted areas in North Carolina. Neffy is an epinephrine nasal spray, a needle-free alternative to epinephrine auto-injectors. If you or someone you know needs access to these devices, they can contact the United Way North Carolina for assistance.

As the communities impacted by these hurricanes recover, the need for allergy-friendly foods and medicine will continue. You can help by sending donations to those in need. We will update this blog as we learn more information.

What Is the Allergy Breakfast Club?

The Allergy Breakfast Club (ABC) was started by Dana Johnston, a parent who saw a need for more awareness of food allergies and food-related diseases in schools. Dana’s daughter, Briley, was diagnosed with celiac disease at 5 years old.

Briley had frequent stomach aches and would toss and turn during the night, unable to sleep from the discomfort. Dana recalls food wasn’t even on the radar as a possible cause. It took several tests and weeks of uncertainty to find their diagnosis. While a diagnosis provided answers, it was a learning curve and an adjustment for the whole family. The diagnosis opened a whole new world where there was a lot to learn.

“One day my eldest [child] came home from school and says, ‘Mom, guess what? A girl in my class has celiac disease too,’ Dana said. “I remember being surprised. I started hearing all these stories of other kids with food allergies [and food-related conditions] and thought, “How did I not know about this before?”

Dana realized there were other parents and kids who probably felt the same way. Food-related diseases can feel isolating. It’s important to have spaces where you can be reminded that you’re not alone in this journey.

The ABC was started to help support families with food allergies and food-related conditions and raise awareness of their impact. Every Monday morning before classes, students can meet up to talk, play games, and snack on allergy-friendly foods together. Activities are offered to help teach the students about food allergies and celiac disease so they can manage them with confidence. Parents are also invited to join in on the conversations and continue the lessons at home.

“This is a place where students can come together and talk about the struggles and help each other grow” says Dana.

ABC started with 10 members. In 2024, they have reached 22 members. Most recently, Dana said it has been heartwarming to see siblings attend the club together and support each other.

How Does the Allergy Breakfast Club Help Educate Students?

The club has hosted guest speakers such as pediatricians and dieticians to give age-appropriate tips to the students. Popular activities include decorating teal pumpkins and allergy bingo, among others. They've also made gluten-free play dough, made allergy-friendly slime, and even decorated allergy-friendly cakes.

One important topic ABC talks about is how to be prepared for celebrations and gatherings. Many of these events revolve around food and can feel stressful. Kids are encouraged to speak up for themselves and help others understand food allergies. They learn about important questions to ask, such as, “What does this meal have in it?” or “How did you prepare it?”. They learn that asking questions is important and okay.

Food Allergies and Bullying at School

After her daughter was diagnosed, Dana began learning about celiac disease and food allergies. In her research, she came across stories of children who were bullied because of their food-related conditions. Students would make fun of other children who couldn't eat certain foods or dare them to eat them.

Food allergy bullying goes beyond emotional and mental harm. It can put a child’s life at risk. People may not understand how serious food allergies are and the consequences of bullying. Intentionally exposing someone to their food allergen is a form of bullying. Depending on the type of food allergy, food allergy and bullying can lead to anaphylaxis.

ABC aims to reduce the potential for food allergy bullying by raising awareness of food allergies, celiac disease, and their impact. Awareness can help children understand these conditions better.

The Club’s Impact on the School and Community

The ABC has been a positive function for Dana’s family, as well as for the school and community. Briley loves it and states it makes her feel she is fully supported by her family.

"We're going to do anything and everything that we can to support [Briley] and to make her journey easier and healthier and happier for her,” Dana shared.

In the past, Dana noticed kids may have felt embarrassed and isolated because of their conditions. Now, they talk about them with pride and confidence.

“Monday rolls around and they'll tell us about a birthday party that they went to on Saturday and how they went with their own snack, their own food, and they came prepared so that they didn't have to feel singled out at that birthday party,” Dana said.

In honor of National Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month and Celiac Disease Awareness Month, club students will be featured on the school’s morning news. Each day in May, they’ll share different allergy facts and statistics with the school to continue bringing awareness of food allergies and celiac disease.

Through social media, other people have learned about ABC and reached out to Dana. One person connected with Dana, and successfully started a club in her county.

“[It] was really cool to hear her getting it started at her school,” Dana recalled. “The more we can do this, the better and the more supported our children and other children are going to be.”

Starting an Allergy Breakfast Club

Dana reached out to the principal of her daughter's school and asked for a meeting to discuss starting a school club. This club would be open to all students, not just children with food-related conditions. This included siblings and friends of kids with food-related conditions allergies, as well as families who just wanted to learn more about it. With the full support of the school, the ABC started 3 years ago.

For anyone who is interested in starting a club, Dana recommends starting a list of parents who would be interested in joining. Then speak with the school principal about the club, what you’d like to do, and get their support. If possible, brainstorm ways to provide allergy-friendly snacks for the group.

Looking for candy for the kids, or kids at heart, in your life who have food allergies? Here is the Kids with Food Allergies (KFA) candy guide for food-allergy-friendly sweets! You can use this guide when shopping for candy for holidays, gatherings, treats, parties, or just for fun!

Avoiding Food Allergy Reactions

Remember, read labels every time on any food you give your child. Ingredients can vary for many reasons, especially on different sizes and treats in seasonal packaging.

Also, remember that a holiday, party, or celebration is not the best time to try new foods.

Find Allergy-Friendly Candy

Search KFA’s Allergy-Friendly Foods collection for candies and treats to fit many food allergy needs.

The buttons below take you to different searches for candy free of the allergens listed on the button. The “Free of Top Food Allergens” button searches for candy and gum free of the most common food allergens – milk, egg, soy, peanut, tree nuts (not including coconut), sesame, wheat, gluten, fish, and shellfish. We have also included buttons below for common categories.

You can set up your own custom search. Click “All Candy” then “Show Search Query.” Adjust the search for what you want to avoid and then click “Search” at the bottom of the form.

     

Click the item in the search results to view the product listing in our Allergy-Friendly Foods collection. Each product includes information about allergens and ingredients, flavors, and varieties, as well as facility information from the manufacturers’ websites.

Some companies make holiday-themed candy. You can include seasonal tags in your search to find holiday candy. Here are the tags you can search for:

• Valentine
• Easter
• Halloween
• Thanksgiving
• Hanukkah or Chanukah
• Christmas
  
  

Note: The “Free of Top Food Allergens” and the “Peanut & Tree Nut Free” searches may include items that contain coconut.

KFA has also created a shareable handout for our candy guide. Our handout lists candies free of the top allergens. Download it to take shopping or to share with teachers and your child’s other caregivers.

Download, print, and share this guide

Below, we have listed a few of the products you can find in our Allergy-Friendly Foods collection.

Chocolate

free2b Chocolate Sunflower Butter Cups – Free of milk, egg, soy, peanut, tree nuts (not including coconut), coconut, sesame, wheat, gluten, fish, and shellfish

PASCHA Chocolate Bars – Free of milk, egg, soy, peanut, tree nuts (not including coconut), coconut, sesame, wheat, gluten, fish, and shellfish

No Whey! Foods Choco NoNo’s – Free of milk, egg, soy, peanut, tree nuts (not including coconut), coconut, sesame, wheat, gluten, fish, and shellfish

Gummies and Chewy Candy

Sunkist Fruit Gems – Free of milk, egg, soy, peanut, tree nuts (not including coconut), coconut, wheat, gluten, fish, and shellfish

Surf Sweets Delish Fish – Free of milk, egg, soy, peanut, tree nuts (not including coconut), coconut, sesame, wheat, gluten, fish, and shellfish

YumEarth Organic Giggles – Free of milk, egg, soy, peanut, tree nuts (not including coconut), coconut, sesame, wheat, gluten, fish, and shellfish

Hard Candy and Lollipops

No Whey! Foods Chocolate Lollipops – Free of milk, egg, soy, peanut, tree nuts (not including coconut), coconut, sesame, wheat, gluten, fish, and shellfish

YumEarth Organic Pops – Free of milk, egg, soy, peanut, tree nuts (not including coconut), coconut, sesame, wheat, gluten, fish, and shellfish

Mints and Gum

Glee Gum – Free of milk, egg, soy, peanut, tree nuts (not including coconut), coconut, sesame, wheat, gluten, fish, and shellfish

Red Bird Candy Puffs – Free of milk, egg, soy, peanut, tree nuts (not including coconut), coconut, sesame, wheat, gluten, fish, and shellfish

Seasonal

Amanda’s Own Chocolates – Free of milk, egg, soy, peanut, tree nuts (not including coconut), coconut, sesame, wheat, gluten, fish, shellfish, mustard, sulfites, and lupin

No Whey! Foods Chocolate Lollipops – Free of milk, egg, soy, peanut, tree nuts (not including coconut), coconut, sesame, wheat, gluten, fish, and shellfish

Other Sweet Treats

All Free Brownie Bites - Individually wrapped chewy brownies in a variety of flavors. Can also be frozen to enjoy later.

Better Bites Mo Cupcakes - Soft chocolate cupcakes filled with vanilla cream and dipped in chocolate ganache. Available individually or in 6-packs.

Drizzilicious Mini Rice Cakes - Mini rice cakes drizzled with various flavors for a crunchy, low-calorie snack. Available in 4 oz. or .74 oz. bags.

Partake Cookies - Crunchy or soft-baked cookies in a variety of flavors. Also available in individually wrapped mini snack packs with seasonal packaging.

Other Ways to Buy Allergy-Friendly Candy

In addition to our Allergy-Friendly Foods collection, you can also find many options online at the Natural Candy Store. Their site allows you to filter and shop by allergens too.

Updated October 2024

Many children with food allergies have eczema as babies. This is part of the allergic march – the natural progression of allergic diseases in a person over time. This means eczema and food allergies are connected.

Does Eczema Cause Food Allergy?

Eczema is caused by a defect in a protein in the skin that helps it build a barrier. It is often genetic, meaning someone else in the family has eczema or another allergic condition. Infants who have persistent or severe eczema have a higher risk of developing food allergies. Most likely, they have a genetic tendency to develop other allergic conditions.

Because of family history, a child with this tendency is also more likely to have environmental allergies (such as pollen, dust mites, and mold) and asthma.

The connection between food allergies and eczema may happen when a baby has eczema and food touches or is rubbed on their skin. Because their skin barrier is not as effective as it should be, their immune system reacts differently to contact with the food through the skin.

This is not cause for alarm. There are a lot of factors that go into whether or not a child develops a food allergy. Just because food touches your baby’s skin does not mean they will develop an allergy to that food.

The best way to help prevent your child from having a food allergy is by introducing allergenic food to your child when they start eating solid foods – around 4 to 6 months old. That may help your baby build a tolerance to those foods.

Does Food Allergy Cause Eczema?

It's unlikely that a specific food is the cause of your child’s eczema. Most babies do not see an improvement in their eczema when foods are removed from their diet.

Because of this, recent guidelines actually recommend against doing panel food allergy testing in babies with eczema. Why? Several reasons.

Children with eczema have high rates of false positives to food allergy testing.

If a child has a false positive to a food but eats that food with no reaction, you may be told to avoid that food. Removing a food from their diet may actually cause your child to become allergic to it when they eat it months later.

David Stukus, MD, explains more in this video:

Watch on YouTube

Should My Child Avoid Foods If They Have Eczema?

Most children do not get relief from eczema when foods are removed from their diets. Often, eczema flares after eating a food are a coincidence. As mentioned above, removing food from their diet can do more harm than good because it may cause them to develop food allergies to those foods you have them avoid.

This applies to breastfeeding/chestfeeding infants as well. Removing food from the parent’s diet typically does not improve the child's eczema.

Watch on YouTube

The important thing to focus on is eczema care. Focus on the skin barrier, avoiding environmental factors and triggers – such as skin care products with fragrances. Use very thick, greasy, unscented emollients such as Vaseline on a regular basis. Use anti-inflammatory topical treatments long before talking with your doctor about removing food from your child’s diet.

If you have concerns about your child’s eczema and food allergies, see a board-certified allergist. They can answer your questions, help you figure out your child’s triggers, and help your child find relief.

Hammond’s Candies Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Milk in Hammond’s Dark Chocolate Filled Mini Waffle Cones

For Immediate Release

October 3, 2024

Contact Information

Devon DeVries (Hammond’s Candies)
1-888-226-3999 or at 303-333-5588 x 180

Company Announcement

Hammond’s Candies of Denver, CO is recalling 4-ounce bags of Dark Chocolate Filled Mini Waffle Cones because they may contain undeclared milk. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to milk run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume these products.

Hammond’s Dark Chocolate Filled Mini Waffle Cones were distributed to AL, AR, AZ, CA, CO, DE, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, MA, MD, MI, MN, MO, MT, NC, NH, NJ, NM, NV, NY, OK, OR, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, VT, WA, WI, WV, WY, Washington, D.C., through retail stores and mail order via https://www.hammondscandies.comExternal Link Disclaimer and https://www.amazon.comExternal Link Disclaimer.

The recalled Hammond’s Dark Chocolate Filled Mini Waffle Cones are packaged in a 4-ounce stand-up, resealable bag, with UPC -6 91355 90513 5. Hammond’s item number for this product is FC23212. The recalled product codes LN0525453 Use By: 03/20/2025 and LN0525453 Use By: 05/20/2025 can be found printed on the lower-center region of the back of the bag. See below photos for example.

One report of an allergic reaction has been reported in connection with this problem to date.

The recall was initiated after the firm received one consumer report of an allergic reaction experienced after consuming the product. As part of the firm’s ongoing investigation, the product was tested and found to contain more than trace amounts of milk proteins, which is not indicated on the packaging. The firm’s investigation into the cause is ongoing.

Consumers who have purchased Hammond’s Dark Chocolate Filled Mini Waffle Cones are urged to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact Devon DeVries at Hammond’s Candies at 1-888-226-3999 or at 303-333-5588 x 180 Monday-Friday, 8am-4pm MST.

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Truly Good Foods Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Almonds and Cashews in Grabeez The Big Cheese Snack Mix 3.25 oz Cup

For Immediate Release

September 25, 2024

Contact Information

704-602-0610
marketing@trulygoodfoods.com

Company Announcement

CHARLOTTE, NC – September 24, 2024 - Truly Good Foods is recalling its 3.25-ounce packages of Grabeez The Big Cheese Snack Mix cups with a Best Before 041625 because they contain undeclared almonds and cashews. People who have allergies or severe sensitivity to almonds and cashews run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume these products.

The recalled product was distributed to distribution centers in FL, GA, MD and TX and retail locations in: DC, FL, IL, MN, NC, SC, TN, and VA from 8/23/2024 – 09/19/2024.

The product, Gabeez The Big Cheese Snack Mix is packaged in a 3.25-ounce, clear plastic container with a green label, UPC 0 94184 00439 8 and a Best Before date of 04/16/25 stamped on the bottom.

No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this problem.

The recall was initiated on September 23, 2024 after a customer noticed an incorrect cup. The firm discovered that the tree nut-containing product was distributed in mislabeled packaging that did not reveal the presence of almonds and cashews. The product inside the cup could be Healthy Trails Mix which contains raisins, sunflower seeds, almonds, pumpkin seeds, and cashews.

Subsequent investigation indicates the problem was caused by a temporary breakdown in the company's production and packaging processes.

Customers who have purchased 3.25-ounce packages of the Grabeez The Big Cheese Snack Mix cups with Best Before 041625 are urged to dispose of the product and can submit for a full refund at www.trulygoodfoods.com/grabeezrecall/External Link Disclaimer. Customers with questions may contact the company at marketing@trulygoodfoods.com or 704-602-0610 Monday-Friday 8:00 am – 6:00 pm EST.

This recall is being made with the knowledge of the Food and Drug Administration.

Pork Dynasty Inc. Recalls Ready-to-Eat Fried Pork Skin Products Due to Misbranding and Undeclared Allergen

For Immediate Release

September 27, 2024

Contact Information
Pork Dynasty Inc.
Wilson Gaw, Owner
832-606-1946
wilsonlg05@yahoo.com

Company Announcement

Pork Dynasty Inc., a Houston, Texas establishment, is recalling approximately 469 pounds of ready-to-eat fried pork skin products due to misbranding and an undeclared allergen, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today. The product contains soy, a known allergen, which is not declared on the product label.

The following products are subject to recall, regardless of the product date [view labels]:

• 3.5-oz. plastic bags containing “TEXARONES BORN IN THE PHILIPPINES – MADE IN TEXAS FRIED OUT PORK FAT WITH ATTACHED SKIN SPICY.”
• 2.5-oz. plastic bags containing “TEXARONES BORN IN THE PHILIPPINES – MADE IN TEXAS FRIED PORK SKIN SPICY.”

The products subject to recall bear establishment number “EST. 46015” inside the USDA mark of inspection. These items were shipped to retail and restaurant locations in Oklahoma and Texas.

The problem was discovered during routine FSIS in-plant verification activities when FSIS personnel observed that a seasoning containing soy, a known allergen, was being used as an ingredient and soy was not declared on the finished product label.

There have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions due to consumption of these products. Anyone concerned about an illness should contact a healthcare provider.

FSIS is concerned that some product may be in consumers’ pantries. Consumers who have purchased these products are urged not to consume them. These products should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase.

FSIS routinely conducts recall effectiveness checks to verify recalling firms notify their customers of the recall and that steps are taken to make certain that the product is no longer available to consumers. When available, the retail distribution lists will be posted on the FSIS website at www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls.

Consumers and members of the media with questions about the recall can contact Wilson Gaw, Owner, Pork Dynasty Inc., at 832-606-1946 or wilsonlg05@yahoo.com.

Consumers with food safety questions can call the toll-free USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline at 888-MPHotline (888-674-6854) or send a question via email to MPHotline@usda.gov. For consumers that need to report a problem with a meat, poultry, or egg product, the online Electronic Consumer Complaint Monitoring System can be accessed 24 hours a day at https://foodcomplaint.fsis.usda.gov/eCCF/.

Distribution List

If you've wondered if a biologic is the best treatment for your child's food allergy, asthma, or eczema, watch our latest webinar on biologics, "Biologics 101."

Jessica Peck DNP, APRN, CPNP-PC, CNE, CNL, FAANP, FAAN, and the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) presented information on biologics for several allergic conditions, including food allergies.

Watch on YouTube

In the video, we talk about:

• What is a biologic?
• Navigating and coordinating biologics with your health care team
• Biologics for asthma, food allergies, and related conditions
• What to do once you are prescribed a biologic

On Aug. 9, 2024, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved neffy®, an epinephrine nasal spray to treat anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction. It has been approved for adults and children who weigh about 66 pounds or more (30 kilograms).

Neffy is a single-dose nasal spray to be given in 1 nostril. You can give a second dose (using a new nasal spray to administer neffy in the same nostril) if symptoms don’t get better or get worse. You may need to get emergency medical care to monitor the allergic reaction in case you need more treatment.

Until now, epinephrine has only been available in devices that use needles. A nasal spray gives people managing allergies more options. And as we told the FDA in May of last year, people at risk of anaphylaxis deserve to have a choice in treatment.

On Sept. 19, 2023, the FDA asked for another study on neffy that focused on adults. This approval follows that study. A study of neffy in children weighing more than 66 pounds showed that epinephrine amounts in children were similar to adults who received neffy.

Epinephrine is the first-line treatment for severe allergic reactions. But far too often, people are not using or getting epinephrine when needed. In a study the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) conducted in 2019, almost 3 out of 4 people said they didn’t use epinephrine for their most recent severe allergic reaction.

Epinephrine nasal spray may remove some of the barriers that prevent people from using epinephrine. The needle-free device removes the fear of needle-based injections and may be easier to use. This may increase confidence among people managing life-threatening allergies.

Innovation is one of our foundation’s core values and we are excited by this new treatment for severe allergic reactions. We will continue to advocate for research that supports our community.

Read the FDA press release to learn more about neffy.

Here are some answers to common questions about neffy.

When will I be able to get neffy?

The epinephrine nasal spray is now available through mail order and retail pharmacies. You can also meet with a doctor through a virtual consultation to get a prescription. Visit neffy.com and click the “Get neffy now” button at the top of the homepage.

How much will neffy cost? Will it be covered by insurance?

If you have commercial insurance (for example, through your job), you can pay $25 for each filled prescription of 2 devices using ARS Pharma’s copay savings program.

If you don’t have insurance coverage, your plan doesn’t cover neffy, or if you have a high-deductible plan, you can pay a cash price of $199 for 2 doses of neffy using BlinkRx. BlinkRX is a digital pharmacy service that is available to you at no added cost.

This cash price is also available if you use retail pharmacy discounts through GoodRx.

The ARS Pharma Patient Assistance Program (PAP) may provide neffy at no cost if you:

• Are a U.S. resident
• Don’t have enough insurance
• Don’t have insurance
• Meet certain eligibility criteria
• Have tried all other options to help pay for neffy

Visit neffy.com or call 1-877-696-3339 for more information.

How many doses does 1 neffy device have?

Each device offers a single dose. Each prescription comes with 2 single-use devices.

Does neffy still work if my nose is congested or if I have a cold?

Clinical tests suggest that upper respiratory tract infections, allergic rhinitis, and infectious rhinitis do not affect how much epinephrine you get or how much you absorb after giving neffy.¹

Talk with your doctor for more information on conditions that may affect how well neffy works. You can also visit neffy.com for more information.

Is neffy as effective as an epinephrine auto-injector?

Yes. Four tests in adults showed that the epinephrine nasal spray works as well as an auto-injector for anaphylaxis. The FDA approved neffy after more testing confirmed how well it works.

• neffy affected systolic blood pressure within 1 minute of dosing.²
• People who gave themselves neffy had responses that were the same or higher than injected epinephrine given by health care providers.³
• In a study of 90 patients, 100% correctly gave neffy to themselves or someone else.⁴
  
  

Is neffy affected by temperature?

Neffy should NOT be frozen. If frozen, neffy will not deliver epinephrine while frozen. These devices can temporarily handle heat up to 122 F. But it is best to keep neffy between 68 - 77 F. The nasal spray is good for 30 months. Studies showed it was still good after thawing if accidentally frozen.^2,5

How quickly does neffy expire?

The expiration date of a medicine is based on when that medicine was made. The expiration date of the device you pick up at your pharmacy will depend on how long ago it was manufactured. The nasal epinephrine spray is good for 30 months.²

Who can use neffy?

Neffy has been tested in adults and in children weighing 66 pounds or more. ARS Pharma plans to file another application with the FDA for neffy for children who weigh between 15 to 30 kilograms later in 2024.

How do I use neffy?

• Remove one neffy device from blister pack.
  
  
• Hold the device with your thumb on the plunger and fingers on either side of the nozzle. Do not press the plunger yet. You do not need to spray a test spray. Each device only has one spray.
  
  
• Insert the nozzle into a nostril until your fingers touch your nose. You can be in any position (sitting, standing, lying down).
  
  
• Keep the nozzle pointing straight toward your forehead. Don’t angle the nozzle toward your nasal septum (wall between the nostrils) or the other wall of your nose.
  
  
• Press the plunger firmly until it snaps up and liquid sprays out. You do not need to sniff to inhale the medicine. If any liquid leaks out of your nose, you may need to give a 2nd dose if you still have symptoms.
  
  
• If you still have symptoms, use the second neffy device for a 2nd dose. You can give it 5 minutes or more after the 1st dose in the same nostril.

See neffy.com for more information and videos on how to use neffy.

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A post shared by Zachary Rubin, MD (@rubin_allergy)

Medical Review: August 2024 by Mitchell H. Grayson, MD

References
1. Oppenheimer J et al. Pharmacokinetics/Pharmacodynamics of Intranasal Epinephrine in Subjects with and without Upper Respiratory Infections Presented at the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI); November 9-13, 2023; Anaheim, CA.
2. ARS Pharma Data on File.
3. Casale TB et al. Pharmacokinetics of Self-Administration of ARS-1 (neffy® Nasal Spray) 2.0 mg Versus Manual Intramuscular (IM) Epinephrine 0.3 mg by Health Care Provider (HCP). Presented at: American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI) Annual Meeting; February 24, 2023; San Antonio, TX.
4. Lowenthal R et al. Self-Administration of Intranasal Epinephrine (neffy) Using the Aptar Unit Dose System Compared to EpiPen and Symjepi. Presented at the Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology; February 25-28, 2022; Phoenix, AZ.
5. neffy Epinephrine Nasal Spray Full Prescribing Information. ARS Pharma. 06-2024.

Avole Inc. Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Fish in Bacalaitos Criollos Codfish Mix

For Immediate Release

September 20, 2024

Contact Information

Liliana Rodriguez at Liana’s Food, Avole Inc. (Productos Nita)
(787) 225-7282, 787-568-9020

Company Announcement

Avole Inc., located in San Sebastian, Puerto Rico is recalling 7-ounce bags of Bacalaitos Criollos Codfish Frying Mix because it may contain undeclared Fish (Pollock). People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to fish run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume these products.

Bacalaitos Criollos Codfish Frying Mix was distributed to: Puerto Rico.

The recalled Bacalaitos Criollos Codfish Frying Mixare packaged in a 7-ounce bag, with Expiration date: 06/2025. Bacalaitos Criollos Codfish Frying Mix item number for this product is 310925. The Use By: 06/2025 can be found printed on the top right-center region of the back of the bag. In addition, some expired products are currently in the market due to undeclared fish (Pollock) in the ingredient or Contains statement.

No reports of illness or injury have been reported in connection with this problem to date.

The recall was initiated after the issue was brought to our attention (The Firm) that the product label failed to declare the common name Fish (POLLOCK) in the ingredient and in the contains statement during an FDA Inspection on September 5th, 2024. As part of the firm’s ongoing investigation, the product has been recollected to recondition and correct the labels.

Consumers who have purchased Bacalaitos Criollos Codfish Frying Mix and are allergic to fish are urged not to consume the product and to return it to the place of purchase. Consumers with questions may contact Liliana Rodriguez at Liana’s Food at (787) 225-7282, Monday-Friday, 8:00 am-4:00pm EST.

HP Hood LLC Recalls Select Units of 96 oz Refrigerated Lactaid Milk Due to Possible Almond Allergen

For Immediate Release

September 20, 2024

Contact Information

Hood Consumer Affairs
800-242-2423

Company Announcement

Lynnfield, MA (September 19, 2024) – HP Hood LLC is recalling five SKUs of 96 oz containers of LACTAID Milk because the product may contain trace amounts of almond, which is not listed on the label. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to almonds may run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume these products.

No illnesses have been reported to date.

The affected 96 oz containers of LACTAID Milk were shipped to retailers and wholesalers from 09/05/24 - 09/18/24 located in AL, CO, CT, FL, GA, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MD, MI, MN, MO, MS, NC, NE, NJ, NY, OH, OK, PA, TX, VA, WI, and WY.

The recall applies to a limited number of 96 oz. plastic containers of refrigerated LACTAID Milk with the code 51-4109 P2 and the Best By Date listed in the chart below. The code and Best By Date can be found in the center-top area of the container, as pictured in the image below. This recall applies to only those products that contain the code 51-4109 P2 and the Best By Date specified in the chart below.

Accompanying this release is a photo of the affected product and stamped information on the carton.

This issue was discovered as a result of routine maintenance programs which revealed the potential for trace amounts of almond.

Consumers who purchased the product may return it to the retail location where the purchase was made for a full refund or exchange, or call Hood Consumer Affairs at 800-242-2423 Monday through Friday from 9 AM ET to 5:00 PM ET.

This voluntary recall is being initiated with the knowledge of the US Food and Drug Administration.

• 96 oz Lactaid Whole Milk
  • Release Date: 0 41383 09073 8
  • Product Name:
    • NOV 22 24
    • NOV 23 24
    • NOV 25 24
    • NOV 26 24
    • NOV 27 24
    • NOV 28 24
    • DEC 02 24
    • DEC 03 24
    • DEC 04 24
  • Expiration: 51-4109 P2
• 96 oz Lactaid 2% Milk
  • Release Date: 0 41383 09072 1
  • Product Name:
    • NOV 23 24
    • NOV 24 24
    • NOV 28 24
    • NOV 29 24
    • NOV 30 24
    • DEC 01 24
    • DEC 04 24
  • Expiration: 51-4109 P2
• 96oz Lactaid 1% Milk
  • Release Date: 0 41383 09071 4
  • Product Name:
    • NOV 24 24
    • NOV 25 24
    • DEC 05 24
  • Expiration: 51-4109 P2
• 96oz Lactaid Fat Free Milk
  • Release Date: 0 41383 09070 7
  • Product Name:
    • NOV 24 24
    • NOV 25 24
  • Expiration: 51-4109 P2
• 96oz Lactaid 2% Calcium Enriched Milk
  • Release Date: 0 41383 15567 3
  • Product Name: DEC 01 24
  • Expiration: 51-4109 P2

The 5.6 million children in the U.S. with food allergies need safe school environments. A bill called the Protecting Children with Food Allergies Act (S.121/H.R.9550) could help do that. If passed, it would require training for school food staff to prevent, identify, and respond to food-related allergic reactions.

Children spend around seven hours a day in school. This doesn’t include before and after school activities. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), more than 15% of school-aged children with food allergies have had an allergic reaction while at school.

USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) does offer food allergy training, but it is not required. Some states may also have certain food allergy policies in place, but they can vary and may not be required.

The Protecting Children with Food Allergies Act will:

• Require National School Lunch Program (NSLP) and School Breakfast Program (SBP) staff to have food allergy training
• Require FNS to make food allergy training available to staff under the Special Milk Program (SMP), Summer Food Service Program (SFSP), and Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP)
• Require FNS to create and include food allergy information in its nutrition education for people who receive Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) benefits

The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) is proud to have worked with Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Sen. Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Rep. Mark DeSaulnier (D-CA), Rep. Doris Matsui (D-CA), and Rep. Mikie Sherrill (D-NJ) on this important bill. We now need your help to make this bill a law.

Kids with Food Allergies (KFA) is the food allergy division of AAFA. The KFA community is very important to food allergy advocacy.

Use our tool below to ask your U.S. congresspeople to support the Protecting Children with Food Allergies Act!

Dearborn Sausage Company, Inc. Recalls Wiener Products Due to Misbranding and Undeclared Allergens

For Immediate Release

September 12, 2024

Contact Information

FSQA Manager, Dearborn Sausage Company, Inc
Chase McQuiston
313-842-2375, ext. 3052

Company Announcement

WASHINGTON, Sept. 12, 2024 – Dearborn Sausage Company, Inc., a Dearborn, Mich. establishment, is recalling approximately 1,944 pounds of ready-to-eat (RTE) wiener products due to misbranding and undeclared allergens, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) announced today. The labels of the two products implicated in the recall were inadvertently swapped resulting in soy, a known allergen, and pork not being declared on the product labels.

The RTE wiener items were produced August 7, 2024. The following products are subject to recall [view labels]:

• 2-lb. vacuum-sealed packages of “BROOKSIDE BRAND FULLY COOKED NATURAL CASING BEEF WIENERS” that may contain undeclared pork with lot code A0122024 and sell by date 11/05/2024.
• 2-lb. vacuum-sealed packages of “BROOKSIDE BRAND NATURAL CASING FULLY COOKED WIENERS” that may contain undeclared soy with lot code A0322024 and sell by date 11/05/2024.

The products subject to recall bear establishment number “EST. 10002” inside the USDA mark of inspection. These items were shipped to retail locations in Ohio.

The problem was discovered when the establishment received a complaint from a retailer that the products they received may have been incorrectly labeled. The establishment determined that they inadvertently mislabeled beef wiener products as beef and pork wiener products and vice versa. The products labeled as beef and pork wiener products actually contain beef wiener products that contain soy; therefore, soy is not declared on the finished product label. Additionally, the product labeled as beef wiener products actually contain beef and pork wiener products, therefore, pork is not declared on the finished product label.

There have been no confirmed reports of adverse reactions due to consumption of these products. Anyone concerned about an injury or illness should contact a healthcare provider.

FSIS is concerned that some product may be in consumers’ and retailers’ refrigerators and/or freezers. Consumers who have purchased these products are urged not to consume them. These products should be thrown away or returned to the place of purchase.

FSIS routinely conducts recall effectiveness checks to verify recalling firms notify their customers of the recall and that steps are taken to make certain that the product is no longer available to consumers. When available, the retail distribution lists will be posted on the FSIS website at www.fsis.usda.gov/recalls.

Consumers and members of the media with questions about the recall can contact Chase McQuiston, FSQA Manager, Dearborn Sausage Company, Inc. at 313-842-2375, ext. 3052.

Consumers with food safety questions can call the toll-free USDA Meat and Poultry Hotline at 888-MPHotline (888-674-6854) or send a question via email to MPHotline@usda.gov. For consumers that need to report a problem with a meat, poultry, or egg product, the online Electronic Consumer Complaint Monitoring System can be accessed 24 hours a day at https://foodcomplaint.fsis.usda.gov/eCCF/.

Innovation Bakers, LLC Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Walnut in 7-Eleven Fudge Brownie Distributed in Southern California

For Immediate Release

September 11, 2024

Contact Information

Innovation Bakers, LLC
customerservice@innovationbakers.com

Company Announcement

Innovation Bakers, LLC of Fullerton, CA, is issuing a voluntary limited recall of one day’s production of its 3.5 oz packs of 7-Eleven Fudge Brownie (05254856392) because they may contain undeclared walnuts. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to walnuts run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reactions if they consume these products.

The recall affects 2,081 single serve units of 7-Eleven Fudge Brownie that were distributed only to 7-Eleven stores in the Southern California region and delivered on 09/08/2024 and 09/09/2024. The product comes in a 3.5 oz pack, marked with Lot Code: Best By Wednesday 0911. Photos are attached below.

No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this issue.

The FDA was notified and the recall was voluntarily initiated after it was discovered that the walnut-containing product was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of walnuts. No other 7-Eleven products are impacted by this recall.

Consumers who have purchased 7-Eleven Fudge Brownie 3.5 oz packs (05254856392) with the Best By Wednesday 0911 Lot Code are urged not to consume the product. They may discard it, return it to the place of purchase for a full refund, or contact Innovation Bakers’ Customer Service for assistance.

For questions, consumers may reach Innovation Bakers, LLC at customerservice@innovationbakers.com.