10 TIPS FOR A SAFE HALLOWEEN WITH FOOD ALLERGIES

Halloween is approaching, and while it might not be as deeply rooted in Australian traditions as in the USA, many families are finding creative ways to embrace this festive occasion. For food allergy families, Halloween can be a bit tricky to navigate, but fear not! We've put together some safe and fun ways to enjoy Halloween Down Under.

1. Don't Participte (And That's Okay!)

First and foremost, remember that you're not obligated to participate in Halloween. It's a personal choice, and there's no right or wrong answer. If you'd rather skip it altogether, that's perfectly fine. You can use this time to do something special with your family that aligns with your values and preferences.

2. Host a Trick-or-Treat Scavenger Hunt at Home

Bring the Halloween spirit right to your doorstep by organizing a trick-or-treat scavenger hunt at home. Fill your yard or living room with hidden treats, both safe foods and non-food items. Dress up in your spookiest costumes, and let the little ones embark on a safe and exciting adventure.

3. Create Your Own Halloween House

Transform your home into a Halloween haven! Get dressed up in your favourite costumes, decorate your house with ghoulish delights, and welcome trick-or-treaters with allergy-friendly treats and non-food goodies. It's a fantastic way to enjoy the festivities without leaving the comfort of your home.

4. Join the Trick-or-Treating Fun

Want to experience the thrill of trick-or-treating while staying safe? Get dressed up, venture out to visit Halloween-decorated homes, and participate in the tradition. When you return home, introduce the "Switch Witch" concept. Swap any non-safe food you've collected for pre-approved safe treats from your stash. Remember, if a treat doesn't have an ingredients label, it's best not to consume it. Snack-sized treats can vary in ingredients and manufacturing processes.

5. Stroll and Soak in the Atmosphere

Put on your costumes, grab your own safe treats (buy best top 10 allergen free treats here), and take a leisurely walk around the neighbourhood. Admire the Halloween decorations and costumes of fellow residents. It's a relaxed way to soak in the Halloween spirit without the pressure of trick-or-treating.

6. Allergy-Safe Decorations

If you deck out your home for Halloween, consider using allergy-safe decorations. Opt for reusable, non-food items such as artificial cobwebs, spooky lights, and eerie figurines. This way, you can maintain the Halloween atmosphere without any concerns about allergens.

7. Teal Pumpkin Project

Join the Teal Pumpkin Project, an initiative started by food allergy families in the USA that promotes a safer Halloween experience for children with food allergies. Place a teal-painted pumpkin or a printable sign outside your home to signify that you offer non-food treats, making it more inclusive for all trick-or-treaters.

8. Scary Movie Night

For a more laid-back Halloween celebration, host a scary movie night at home (age appropriate of course!). Create a comfy movie-watching space, prepare allergy-friendly snacks from our free recipe e-book or order a top 10 allergen-free box of treats, and enjoy a selection of Halloween-themed films. It's a fun and safe way to embrace the holiday spirit.

9. Host a Costume Contest

Encourage creativity and celebrate the art of costume-making by hosting a costume contest within your family. Everyone can showcase their costumes, and you can even have a little runway show for added excitement. Give small, non-food prizes to the winners.

10. Share Your Allergy Awareness

As part of your Halloween celebration, take the opportunity to educate your family, friends, and neighbours about food allergies. This awareness can contribute to a safer and more empathetic community for those with food allergies. Consider sharing informative brochures, engaging in discussions, or simply sharing your family's story to raise awareness.

Celebrating Halloween is a personal choice, and there's no right or wrong way to go about it if you choose to join in. Whether you decide to fully embrace the festivities or opt for a more low-key celebration, our hope is that these ideas provide you with a safe and enjoyable Halloween with food allergies. The key is to have fun, create lasting memories, and prioritize your family's well-being. Happy Halloween! 🎃👻

Do you have any Halloween recommendations or top tips? We’d love to hear them. Please share them in the comments.