Trick-or-treating should be a fun time for all kids, but for children and families with food allergies, it can be stressful and anxiety-provoking. Research shows that there is an increase in anaphylaxis in the days around Halloween. A 2020 study found that the incidence rate of anaphylaxis is over 65% higher in the days around Halloween compared to other times of the year.

CHRIM researcher, Dr. Jennifer Protudjer, studies the impacts of allergic disease on children and their families. Her team researches the burdens that are put on families, such as financial, psychological, and social pressures that come with the adjustment of lifestyle. They also work with groups and organizations to form relationships that will assist in guiding the team to new intervention strategies, resource changes, and program and policy improvements.

Dr. Protudjer and her team have shared some tips to enhance food allergy safety during Halloween:

• Offer non-food Halloween treats, such as pencils, crayons or stickers.
• Look for teal colored pumpkins, which are a symbol of food allergy awareness.
• Make sure friends and family know about the food allergies.
• Trick-or-treat with a trusted adult.
• Be sure to have a trusted adult read all ingredient labels before consuming treats.
• Parents and caregivers can swap out any candy that is not allergy-friendly.
• Never eat the food if you are unsure of the ingredients.
• Carry two in-date epinephrine autoinjectors.

Learn more about Dr. Protudjers research by visiting her website here: https://www.jenniferprotudjer.ca/