Nearly 32 million adults and children in the United States have food allergies. Even though food allergies have increased over the last few decades, many people still don’t understand allergic reactions and how serious they can be. Families managing food allergies often take a lot of precautions to avoid triggers and prepare to treat reactions if they occur. But the challenges of managing food allergies often go unnoticed.

Hearing stories directly from people who manage food allergies helps raise awareness about food allergies and helps more people understand the condition. Kids with Food Allergies (KFA), the food allergy division of the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA), recently teamed up with two patient advocates, Carter and Alexa, to raise awareness about food allergies and advocate for change on behalf of the food allergy community.

Their stories remind us that we can use our experiences to help other people living with food allergies have a better future.

Carter is a college sophomore. He doesn’t let his allergies to peanuts and tree nuts hold him back. When he was an eighth-grade student, Carter realized he could help make the lives of people managing food allergies better through policy. Since then, he has worked on two advocacy initiatives. He proposed and is working to help pass a law in Wisconsin to increase food allergy safety in restaurants. He is also working with AAFA to increase access to epinephrine auto-injectors on airplanes.

“I think my drive to push for food allergy advocacy is just for people in the food allergy community to feel safer, both from a health standpoint and a social standpoint,” Carter said. “I’m focused on pushing for policies that increase food allergy awareness and food allergy safety precautions, whether it be in restaurants or in the airport. But then also socially, creating a more inclusive environment for the food allergy community.”

Alexa is a college senior and patient advocate living with food allergies. She had a severe allergic reaction after eating a salad when on a plane a few years ago. She received very little support from the airline staff and was left alone to manage her reaction. This sparked a passion in Alexa to help raise awareness about the impacts of food allergies and advocate for federal laws that would improve access to epinephrine.

SUPPORT KFA'S MISSION

KFA provides tools and support to help people manage their food allergies. KFA’s online community is a great place for families managing food allergies to go for support and practical tips from others who understand their challenges. KFA's Safe Eats® Allergy-Friendly Recipe Collection is a useful tool to help people find recipes that are free of many major allergens. KFA also works with advocates, like Carter and Alexa, to advance policies that would protect the health and safety of people living with food allergies.

Like Alexa and Carter, you can make a difference for the food allergy community. Your gift will provide free, life-saving education and support for people living food allergies and their caregivers. Because of you, KFA can continue to provide community support and education while advocating for federal and state policies that protect people with food allergies and advancing patient-centered research.

On Dec. 4, New York Giants defensive back Dane Belton will wear special cleats during the team’s game against the Washington Commanders to help raise awareness for food allergies. He is participating in the NFL’s My Cause My Cleats campaign.

Food allergies have been very prominent throughout Dane’s life. He is allergic to milk, eggs, tree nuts, peanuts, shellfish, sesame, and coconut.

After his diagnosis, his mom looked to Kids with Food Allergies (KFA) for allergy-friendly recipes. So, Dane shared that selecting KFA for the My Cause My Cleats campaign was an easy choice. KFA is the food allergy division of the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA).

“I’m thankful for you guys helping me and my mom out,” shared Dane. “I wanted to give back and spread the knowledge you provide.”

He also shared, “It's especially important for me because not a lot of people understand the hardship of having a lot of food allergies. I wish more people understood that for us it’s challenging everywhere we go. [We have] to always be verbal about what we have. I feel like it's getting better now, but a lot of restaurants still don’t have allergen menus. You have to talk to a chef one on one and see what you can eat.”

During week 13 of the NFL season, players wear their causes on their feet. They wear custom-designed cleats that represent charities they are passionate about. The cleats will then be auctioned off to raise money for the chosen organizations. To learn more, visit nfl.com/mycausemycleats.

Dane’s cleats will feature the KFA and AAFA logos To check out his cleats, tune into the New York Giants game against the Washington Commanders on Dec. 4 at 1 p.m. ET.

Dane recalls growing up with food allergies being “very stressful on my mom … She was super adamant about making sure everyone knew about my allergies.” This included his day care, school, after-school activities, sports teams, and more.

His mom used some KFA resources to help manage his food allergies, including some of KFA’s Safe Eats® recipes.

“I know she got a lot of dessert recipes [from KFA] for sure,” recounted Dane. “[Desserts were] the most challenging being allergic to dairy and eggs. A lot of desserts use those.”

He shared memories of how his mom would try out new recipes and how excited he was when he was able to eat new foods. The recipes from KFA were especially helpful in adding variety to his diet.

When asked if he had a favorite KFA recipe he shared, “I remember I was 12 and I’d never had pumpkin pie and she made it … it was the first time I’d ever had it.” He loved it!

Growing up with food allergies can be challenging. And even today, food allergies still affect Dane.

“Being a professional athlete we are tasked with taking in a lot of protein to keep up with our daily regimen and workouts. A lot of people drink whey protein drinks and I’m allergic to that,” shared Dane. He has to get creative and find different ways to get protein.

Dane has also learned that having a solid support system makes it a lot easier to manage food allergies. This includes the New York Giants staff. For example, when traveling they ensure he has safe food to eat so he can focus on playing football.

Now the NFL’s My Cause My Cleats campaign is giving Dane an opportunity to help other people learn about food allergies.

When asked about what advice he has for other people with food allergies, Dane shared, “Don’t be afraid to ask questions! You may learn there is more that you can eat.”

Rocky Mountain Pies, LLC Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared (Tree Nuts Almonds) in Red Button Vintage Creamery 31.88 oz French Silk Pie

For Immediate Release

November 29, 2022

Contact Information

Rocky Mountain Pies, LLC
801-233-6660

Company Announcement

Rocky Mountain Pies, LLC of Salt Lake City, Utah is recalling 31.88 oz French Silk Pie with inkjet code date 2 266, because it may contain undeclared almonds. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to Tree Nuts (almonds) run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume these products.

Red Button Vintage Creamery French Silk Pie was distributed in Arizona, Utah, Oregon, Washington, Montana, Nevada, Colorado, Wyoming, and Idaho in retail stores.

Products are packaged in a clear plastic dome and black plastic base with a “Red Button Vintage Creamery” cardboard sleeve. Recall includes only products with the inkjet code on the dome that begins with “2 266”.  Only UPC code 0 41172 81290 9 is involved in this recall.

No illnesses have been reported to date.

It was discovered at a retail location by staff that cases labeled “Turtle Cream Pies” contained Turtle Cream Pies,but were labeled with the “French Silk Pie” sleeves, resulting in the undeclared allergen, as the Turtle Cream Pie contains almonds and the French Silk Pie Sleeve does not declare almonds.  Subsequent investigation indicates the problem was caused by a temporary breakdown in the company's pre-operational changeover packaging process.

Consumers who have purchased Red Button Vintage Creamery French Silk Pie with the Lot Code beginning with “2 266” are urged to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 801-233-6660, Monday through Friday 8:00 am – 4:00 PM MST.

Rocky Mountain Pies, LLC.
250 West Crossroads Square
Salt Lake City, Utah  84115

Weis Markets Issues an Allergy Alert for Weis Quality Premium Sea Salt and Caramel Ripple Ice Cream Due to Undeclared Soy and Coconut Allergens

For Immediate Release

November 23, 2022

Contact Information

Weis Customer Service
1-866-999-9347

Company Announcement

Sunbury, PA (NOVEMBER 23, 2022) – Weis Markets today said it has issued a recall for 108 containers of Weis Quality Sea Salt Caramel Ripple Ice Cream (48oz) since the product may contain undeclared soy and coconut allergens. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to soy or coconut allergens run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reactions if they consume these products.

Product may have been distributed in 197 Weis Markets’ stores in Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, New Jersey, New York, Delaware and West Virginia.

The container says Weis Quality Sea Salt Caramel Ripple Ice Cream and the lid says Weis Quality Caramel Caribou Ice Cream. The ice cream is packaged in a scround container with a UPC of 041497-01288 and with a sell by date of 11/08/23. This was produced on 11/08/22. The sell by date can be located on the bottom of the container. An example of the container and lid has been included with this release.

There have been no illnesses reported to date.

The recall was initiated after it was discovered that product containing soy and coconut was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of soy and coconut. Subsequent investigation indicates the problem was caused by a temporary breakdown in the company’s production and packaging process.

Customers who have purchased this product may return it for a full refund.

Customers requiring additional information may contact Weis Customer Service at 1-866-999-9347 Monday through Friday 8am-5pm EST.

Phil’s Power Pancake Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Wheat in Phil’s Power Pancake

For Immediate Release

November 18, 2022

Contact Information

Phil’s Power Pancake
949-637-2253

Company Announcement

Phil’s Power Pancake of Costa Mesa, CA is recalling its 5 oz. packages of individually wrapped Power Pancakes in all 5 varieties (Mango, Raspberry, Cranberry, Dates, and Chocolate Chip Hempseed) because they may contain undeclared wheat. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to wheat run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume these products.

Phil’s Power Pancakes are distributed locally in Orange County & Los Angeles, CA at various gyms and markets in refrigerated cases.

Pancakes are individually wrapped in clear 5 oz. plastic packages labeled with UPC Code 8 37654 48372 5. All product currently on the market is subject to recall.

All 5 varieties of pancakes contain rye flour that contains 1% wheat. Labels on the product distributed state “wheat free” and new labels will read “99% wheat free”.

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

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

Consumers who have purchased 5 oz. packages of Phil’s Power Pancakes are urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at 949-637-2253.

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is an allergic condition that causes swelling in your esophagus (swallowing tube). EoE happens when a large number of white blood cells called eosinophils collect and cause damage in the lining of the esophagus. It is often an immune response to food, but in some cases, environmental pollen can also trigger EoE.

If you or someone you care for has been diagnosed with EoE or is experiencing symptoms, watch our educational program “Eating Without Pain: Partnership for Effective Management of EoE.”

WATCH ON DEMAND NOW

During this one-hour educational program, a gastroenterologist, caregiver, and representative from the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) discuss:

• Signs and symptoms of EoE in babies, children, and adults that should prompt testing for EoE
• Long-term impact of untreated EoE
• Evolving treatments in children vs. adults
• Tips for daily coping with EoE
• Strategies for managing EoE at school
• And much more!
  
  

This program will help you take a more active role in EoE treatment planning, find resources for social and financial support, and find answers to your most pressing questions.

Watch on demand now to learn more about managing EoE, treatment, and finding resources for social and financial support.

Fudgeamentals Recalls Chocolate Fudge Bites Because of Undeclared Walnuts

For Immediate Release

November 17, 2022

Contact Information

Fudgeamentals
631-729-1408
recall@fudgeamentals.com

Company Announcement

Fudgeamentals of Melville, New York has voluntarily recalled one lot of Chocolate Fudge Bites packaged in 8 oz. plastic containers. The Chocolate Fudge Bites products may contain Chocolate Walnut Fudge Bites products instead, resulting in the presence of undeclared tree nut (walnut) ingredient. The issue was discovered after one of the store employees discovered Chocolate Walnut Fudge Bites were incorrectly labeled as Chocolate Fudge Bites.

Consumers who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to tree nuts (walnuts), run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reactions if they consume these products and are urged not to consume this item.

No illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this problem. Anyone concerned about an injury or illness should contact a healthcare provider.

These products were distributed through Fareway retail stores in Iowa, Illinois, Minnesota, Nebraska, and South Dakota. The product comes in a clear plastic container labeled Chocolate Fudge Bites, marked with lot #22301015 and UPC code 840235800392. The UPC code can be found on the back or bottom side of the product just below the barcode. The lot number can be found printed directly on the side of the package.

Consumers allergic to walnuts or who have purchased 8 oz package of Chocolate Fudge Bites, marked with lot #22301015 and UPC code 840235800392 are urged to discard the product or return it to the place of purchase for a full refund.

Consumers who have questions or would like to report adverse reactions should contact Fudgeamentals at 631-729-1408 or email recall@fudgeamentals.com. Fudgeamentals hours of operation are Monday through Friday 9 AM to 6 PM (Eastern Time).

Holidays are a great time to spend with friends and family. Food-focused holidays – like Thanksgiving, Christmas, Hanukkah, Lunar New Year, and other fall and winter holiday celebrations – can create added stress for parents of children with food allergies. Try some of these ideas to take precautions to avoid food allergy reactions during family meals and parties that you either host or attend.

1. Use foods from allergy-aware companies.

For peace of mind, when you are cooking or baking for your event, use products from companies you trust for their labeling and manufacturing processes. Avoid trying new foods during the holidays. If you want to introduce a new food, do it well before the actual holiday.

2. Freeze allergy-friendly dishes ahead of time.

Save yourself some time on the day of your holiday meal by preparing safe dishes in advance and freezing them. Holidays are a flurry of activity in the kitchen. Shop for and prepare dishes when you aren’t in a rush and have a lot of time to read labels. Stick them in the oven when you’re ready to bake them. Be sure to plan some extra cooking time if you bake them from frozen.

3. Pack a special meal just for your child.

If you are going to someone else’s home, pack a special holiday meal for your child. Make it festive and holiday themed. Consider calling the host ahead of time to find out what they will serve so you can make a similar meal for your child. Pack it in a microwavable-safe plate or in an insulated bag with hot packs to keep it warm.

4. Educate others to prevent cross-contact.

The best way to prevent food allergy reactions is to avoid accidental contact with your child’s food allergens. Make sure everyone who prepares, handles, and serves food your child will eat knows your child’s food allergens and how to prevent cross-contact.

5. Practice new recipes or substitutes ahead of time.

If you’re new to food allergies or are trying new recipes or substitutes, test them out before your holiday event. This will help you know ahead of time if your dish will be a success or if it needs tweaks. Visit our Safe Eats® Allergy-Friendly Recipes. You can search to find recipes according to your child’s dietary needs or browse by category.

No matter what, have epinephrine with your child at all times. Keep it close by and not in the car. Epinephrine is the first-line treatment for severe allergic reactions (anaphylaxis), so remember to treat your child right away if they have symptoms.

Boston Baking Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Pecans in "Boston Baking Mini Cinnamon Crumb Cakes"

For Immediate Release

November 14, 2022

Contact Information

Boston Baking Inc.
1-888-224-3548

Company Announcement

BOSTON BAKING, Inc. of Boston, MA, is recalling its 3-ounce, individually wrapped packages "Boston Baking Mini Cinnamon Crumb Cakes" food snacks sold exclusively at Whole Foods Market stores because they may contain undeclared pecans. People who have allergies to pecans run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume these products.

The recalled "Boston Baking Mini Cinnamon Crumb Cakes" were sold in CONNECTICUT, MASSACHUSETTS, NEW HAMPSHIRE, RHODE ISLAND, NEW JERSEY AND NEW YORK at select Whole Foods Market stores.

The affected product comes in a 3-ounce, clear plastic package marked with “Packed On” date of 10/17/22-11/10/22 and with a “Sell By” date of 10/22/22-11/15/22 and UPC (01)00238543000007(3904)0019900 printed on the back label.

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

The recall was initiated after it was discovered by Whole Foods Market team member that the pecan-containing product was distributed in packaging that did not include pecans in the ingredient list. Subsequent investigation indicates the problem was caused by an isolated error in the company's production and packaging processes.

Consumers who have purchased these affected packages of "Boston Baking Mini Cinnamon Crumb Cakes" are urged not to consume if allergic to pecans and to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact Boston Baking Inc. at 1-888-224-3548 from 9am-5pm, EST.

Big Sky Bread Company Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Milk in Chocolate Chunk Granola and Chocolate Chunk Peanut Butter Chip Granola

For Immediate Release

November 14, 2022

Contact Information

Big Sky Bread Company
515-276-1800

Company Announcement

Big Sky Bread Company of Urbandale, IA is recalling their Big Sky Chocolate Chunk Granola and Big Sky Chocolate Chunk Peanut Butter Chip Granola because it may contain undeclared milk. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to milk run the risk of serious allergic reaction if they consume these products.

The Big Sky Chocolate Chunk Granola and Big Sky Chocolate Chunk Peanut Butter Chip Granola was distributed in Iowa through retail stores and direct delivery. All Big Sky Chocolate Chunk Granola and Big Sky Chocolate Chunk Peanut Butter Chip Granola in 14oz packages that was distributed through 11/07/2022 fall under this recall.

No illnesses have been reported to date.

The recall was initiated after it was discovered during a routine inspection that a product containing milk was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of milk.

Consumers who have purchased Big Sky Chocolate Chunk Granola or Big Sky Chocolate Chunk Peanut Butter Chip Granola are urged to return it to the place of purchase for a full refund or it may be returned to Big Sky Bread Company at 7021 Douglas Ave in Urbandale for a refund or product replacement. Consumers with questions may contact Big Sky Bread Company directly at 515-276-1800. We can be reached Monday-Friday between 7am-2pm CST.

The American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (ACAAI) held their Annual Science Meeting Nov. 10-14, in Louisville, Kentucky. During the meeting, ACAAI shared the latest news on topics important to people with food allergies and asthma.

Kids With Food Allergies (KFA) is sharing the press releases from the meeting to bring you the latest research news.

Study Shows 86.4% of Infants with Anaphylaxis Appropriately Received Epinephrine

A recent study shows that most infants who went to the emergency department for anaphylaxis didn’t need to stay in the hospital and went home after a few hours after being given epinephrine. Read the press release. (en español)

Only 52% of Adults with Severe Food Allergy Have Been Prescribed an Epinephrine Auto-Injector

One study found that many adults who need epinephrine auto-injectors for food allergy reactions don’t have immediate access to epinephrine. Many adults believe epinephrine can be harmful even though it’s safe and important for stopping a severe allergic reaction called anaphylaxis. Read the press release. (en español)

Even in States with Strong Stock Albuterol Laws, School Administrators Fear Liability

One in 12 children have asthma. This means most classrooms in the United States could have at least one student with asthma. These children need quick-relief asthma medicine, such as albuterol, to treat an asthma attack. Many states have laws that allow schools to keep stock albuterol on hand for children who don’t have their inhalers with them. Even though they are protected by Good Samaritan laws, many school staff and prescribing health care providers are afraid to stock inhalers in schools due to liability concerns. Read the press release. (en español)

Smartphones Are Reservoirs of Allergens According to New Research

Smartphones can carry more than just germs. They can also have higher levels of certain allergens, according to a new study. The study also looked at the best cleaners to use to remove the allergens. Read the press release. (en español)

When you manage food allergies, and other conditions like asthma or eczema, health insurance can be very important. But health care can also be confusing. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) gives people the opportunity to get health insurance if they can’t get coverage through an employer, Medicare, Medicaid or elsewhere. People with ACA coverage also cannot be denied for pre-existing conditions.

These resources will walk you through the process, answer common questions and help you learn more about health insurance.

Health Insurance Marketplace Guide for Asthma and Allergies

What is open enrollment? How do you enroll in a Marketplace plan on Healthcare.gov? What’s the difference between a Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum plan? What do you need to consider if you have food allergies or asthma? Get answers to these questions and more, with additional resources so you can be prepared before you sign up for Marketplace insurance.

Understanding Health Care Changes

Each year, there are new changes to the ACA. Before you purchase a plan, you need to be aware of changes for the upcoming year. This summary of ACA changes provides helpful information like essential terms and how to get more help.

What to Do If You Can’t Afford Epinephrine Auto-Injectors

Even with health insurance, life-saving epinephrine might not be affordable for everyone. Learn what options are available and how to reduce your out-of-pocket cost on the epinephrine auto-injectors currently available in the U.S.

Updated November 2022