Allergists Urge Non-Food Treats for Halloween to Protect Children with Allergies

LEXINGTON, Ky. – As Halloween approaches, allergists are urging families to consider non-food items when preparing for trick-or-treating. With an estimated 1 out of 13 children affected by food allergies, the holiday can pose significant risks for those with allergies.

Dr. William Greisner, an allergist at Bluegrass Allergy Care, emphasizes the importance of safety for children susceptible to allergic reactions. “Halloween can be quite scary for children who do have a food allergy,” he notes. Parents are advised to closely monitor their children’s candy during trick-or-treating and carefully check labels for allergens.

Common allergens include tree nuts, peanuts, and eggs. Ingesting these allergens can trigger anaphylactic reactions, which may present symptoms such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the lips, tongue, and throat, and wheezing. Dr. Greisner encourages parents to exercise caution, particularly with chocolates that may contain these ingredients.

If there is any uncertainty about the safety of a particular candy, Dr. Greisner advises it is better to discard that piece rather than risk an allergic reaction. “When in doubt, it is far better to throw out that piece of candy or perhaps give it to someone else,” he recommends.

To create an inclusive environment for children with food allergies during Halloween, the use of the teal pumpkin is encouraged. This symbol indicates that non-food treats are available. Safe alternatives include small bouncy balls, miniature slinkies, stickers, and crayons. “Over time, people are becoming more familiar with the teal pumpkin program,” Dr. Greisner states, highlighting the need for community participation.

If you do not have a teal pumpkin, Dr. Greisner suggests printing a poster or picture to display on your door, signaling to children that safe, non-food treats are offered.

For further information on the teal pumpkin initiative and how to support children with allergies this Halloween, families are encouraged to explore resources related to the Teal Pumpkin Project. By fostering awareness and providing safe options, communities can ensure that Halloween remains enjoyable for all children.