JCFamilies Support The Teal Pumpkin Project
Halloween can be a tricky time for families managing food allergies, celiac disease, and other conditions. Many traditional Halloween treats aren’t safe for children with life-threatening food allergies. Food allergies are a life-altering and potentially life-threatening and growing public health issue. In the U.S., one in 13 children has a food allergy – roughly two in every classroom. Even a tiny amount of their allergen can cause a severe reaction in these children. The Teal Pumpkin Project is a FARE – Food Allergy Research & Education initiative promoting safety, inclusion, and respect for individuals managing food allergies and other children for whom candy is not an option.
Virtually any food can cause a reaction. Many popular Halloween candies contain nuts, milk, egg, soy, or wheat, some of the most common allergens in children and adults. Additionally, many miniature or fun-size versions of candy items contain ingredients different from those of their full-size counterparts, and some miniature candy items may not have labels, so it is difficult for parents to determine whether these items are safe for their children with food allergies.
Participating is simple. Pick up some inexpensive toys, and place a teal pumpkin outside your home to show that you have non-food treats to hand out. If you do not have time to paint a pumpkin teal, there are other resources from FARE, the Food Allergy Research and Education organization, such as free flyers and signs you can print and put at your door.
Supporting the Teal Pumpkin Project is a simple gesture that can significantly impact the project. If you want to participate or find a participant house, you can find a map HERE.
The goal is not to exclude candy from the Halloween tradition but to affirm an enjoyable, safer, happier Halloween for all.
For more help, check out the following resources:
Updated on October 1st, 2021
