How to Find Peanut-Free Birthday Treats for School

According to the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, allergies to peanuts and tree nuts are the leading causes of fatal and near-fatal food-related allergic reactions. Unlike most other food allergies, children seldom outgrow peanut allergies. These threatening allergies have prompted efforts to keep schools "peanut-free zones," affecting school lunch programs and treat options. Use a few simple steps to find a good variety of peanut-free treats to send in for your child's birthday or other occasions featuring snacks.

Things You'll Need

• School policy on snacks
• Lists of peanut-free products

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Instructions

• 1

  Contact the nurse at your child's school to find out exactly what the policy is regarding sending in treats for the kids. She may be able to provide you with a list of recommended safe or approved foods.

• 2

  Talk to parents of children with allergies. They can often provide you with very specific information about which foods and brands to avoid and which are safe for peanut-allergic children.

• 3

  Contact your child's pediatrician if you need additional information. Explain that you are providing birthday treats for a class with peanut-allergic children. Ask for information and recommendations about safe food choices.

• 4

  Use the school policy and food lists to select appropriate treats for your child's classroom birthday celebration. Most fruits and vegetables are good choices, as are many hard candies. Major snack food brands offer a variety of cookies and salty snacks free of peanuts, peanut flour or peanut oil.