Handling Peanut Allergies

Approximately 98% of Americans can enjoy peanuts without any reaction, and about 2% of school aged children in the U.S. may have peanut allergy, according to the National Academies of Science, Engineering and Medicine. A combination of caution and preparation, along with a comprehensive food allergy management plan—including education of students and parents and training for all staff — helps reduce the risk of accidental ingestion and ensure that staff are ready in case a reaction occurs. Important allergen safe steps to consider include:

• Provide clear and adequate signage and labeling of common allergens on menus and serving lines.

• Clearly identify and label all containers involved in food preparation, serving, and storage.

• Use separate tools and equipment for preparation and service of allergen containing foods.

• Offer options on the menu each day.

• Conduct annual food allergy training to include cross-contamination, handwashing and cleaning, and how to respond to food allergy reactions.

Proper training is an important part of managing allergies in school foodservice. For more information, click the links to the videos shown below and visit peanutsinschools.org: