The world of food is one that allots near endless discovery. Cultures around the world have created a myriad of recipes, both unique and twists on recipes from other lands. However, in this vast world of amazing food there are limitations to what some can eat. Allergies, intolerances, and other dietary restrictions are all aspects that one must be well aware of, whether it be for yourself or for others. According to a 2019 JAMA Network Open study, 10.8% of US adults are food allergic. It is quite likely that you know someone who may have a dietary restriction as well! Some restrictions could be for medical reasons, but there are also religious and lifestyle reasons for restrictions as well. Knowing how to shop and cook with dietary restrictions in mind can be beneficial, not just to your friends and family with dietary restrictions, but also to your cooking and baking skills!
One of the most important learning curves concerning dietary restrictions is reading the ingredients at the store. In the US and many other countries, you can often find a list of common food allergens at the bottom of the ingredients section. It is typically in bold saying something along the lines of “Contains peanuts, and tree nuts.”, “May contain eggs“, or “Made in a facility that processes dairy products“. These disclaimers are useful in understanding the possible risk associated with the purchase. Certainly the “mays” and “made in facilities” are not guarantees that it is unsafe, but it is a warning that must be taken seriously nonetheless, especially in regards to allergies. Paying close attention to these warnings and relaying this information to others who may have food allergies not just helps protect others, but also shows that you actively care about the health and wellbeing of them. From personal experience, it is quite rare those those who don’t suffer from or have family members who suffer from food allergies are even aware of this basic first step. I am often questioned by friends when I go through the store and turn the packaging around to check the various foods I’m about to buy. Personally, I don’t hold it against them though, its not something they had to live through in life, while for me it is habit to check and ask those who I am cooking for if they have any dietary restrictions I should be aware of. By recognizing that some of those you know might have such dietary restrictions and accommodating for them and asking what to be aware of is an amazing first step you can take to show awareness.
Tanks for sharing