Teal pumpkins, other tips ensure safe Halloweens for families with food allergy

Key takeaways:

• The Teal Pumpkin Project encourages inclusion for children with food allergy.
• Parents can take steps to ensure safe Halloween parties.
• Everyone should be able to recognize the signs of an allergic reaction.

Editor’s Note: In Healio Allergy/Asthma’s column, “Food Allergy: Fact vs. Fiction,” Douglas H. Jones, MD, breaks down what’s true and what’s myth for a variety of topics related to food allergies. If you have a question that you would like answered in this column, email Jones at rmaaimd@gmail.com or Richard Gawel at rgawel@healio.com.

Do you recall seeing teal pumpkins at various houses around Halloween? Why is this? Why would someone choose teal over orange? Led by Food Allergy Research & Education, it is called the Teal Pumpkin Project.

This initiative is aimed at promoting food allergy awareness during Halloween and keeping children with food allergies safe. It encourages households to offer nonfood treats for children with food allergies during trick-or-treating, making Halloween inclusive for all kids. Here are the key points:

• Teal pumpkins: Homes that participate display a teal pumpkin to indicate they have nonfood treats available, such as toys, stickers or glow sticks.
• Awareness: The project raises awareness about food allergies and encourages compassion and understanding within communities.
• Inclusion: It allows children with allergies to participate fully in Halloween festivities while minimizing the risk for allergic reactions.

Douglas H. Jones

In addition to participating in the Teal Pumpkin Project, what are some other ways to promote safety at Halloween for children with food allergies? If you treat children with food allergies, you may consider printing out these tips for their caregivers.

Top tips for Halloween safety

Encourage communication with neighbors

Let your neighbors know about your child’s allergies so they can provide safe treats if they plan to hand out candy.

Create a safe treat bag

Before heading out for trick-or-treating, prepare a stash of safe treats ready that your child can enjoy while others are eating potentially unsafe options. The “Switch Witch” can often help trade out potentially unsafe treats for safe ones.

Set clear boundaries

Teach your children not to eat anything until it has been checked by an adult.

Have an emergency plan and carry emergency medication

Make sure you have an emergency plan. Ensure you always have an epinephrine auto-injector and antihistamines (not Benadryl) on hand. Remember, epinephrine is the first-line treatment, not antihistamines. The common approach of giving antihistamines first and waiting to see if it worsens is not a good idea. Sedating antihistamines such as Benadryl (Johnson & Johnson) should not be given in an acute reaction to foods.

We like the phrase, “Epi first, epi fast.” If your child is with someone other than you, then make sure that whoever is in charge knows the signs of allergic reaction (see the refresher below) and how to properly use the emergency epinephrine device. Make sure they know which device they have and how to use it, since devices each have subtle differences.

Plan ahead for parties

If your child is attending a Halloween party, reach out to the host in advance to discuss food options and ensure there are safe snacks available.

Be cautious with homemade treats

It is best to avoid homemade treats unless you know the ingredients and preparation methods used. When in doubt, don’t eat it.

Educate about allergen awareness

Help your child understand their allergies and encourage them to speak up about their needs in social situations.

Read labels carefully

Always check ingredient labels on candies and treats. Look for potential allergens and cross-contamination warnings.

Signs of allergic reactions

If you need a refresher, or if you need something to help you educate other parents, here are the common symptoms of anaphylaxis or a severe allergic reaction:

• Skin reactions: These reactions may include hives and itching and flushed or pale skin. Don’t forget to look behind the child’s ears or in their eyes, as reactions may manifest in those areas first and are often missed.
• Low blood pressure (hypotension): The child may become lethargic.
• Constriction of the airways and a swollen tongue or throat: Reactions can cause wheezing and trouble breathing. An early sign of this is throat clearing or difficulty swallowing.
• Change in disposition: Particularly in children, one of the first signs is a change in their disposition. They may go quiet suddenly or become unusually “clingy,” so pay attention to their behavior.
• Other symptoms: Other signs may include a weak and rapid pulse; nausea, vomiting or diarrhea; or dizziness or fainting.

By taking these precautions, you can help ensure a safe and enjoyable Halloween for everyone and consider teal over orange.

For more information:

Douglas H. Jones, MD, FAAAAI, FACAAI, is cofounder of Global Food Therapy, Food Allergy Support Team and OITConnect, the director at Rocky Mountain Allergy at Tanner Clinic, and a Healio Allergy/Asthma Peer Perspective Board Member. He can be reached at rmaaimd@gmail.com or on Instagram @drdouglasjones.