The exciting 4th of July celebration is here. That means it is time to start preparing for how to celebrate in style. While planning parties and events, you’ll also want to take a few minutes to learn how to celebrate safely. This refers to physical safety, of course, but also food safety. If you want to make July 4th all about fun and new experiences, dedicate some time to an allergy and intolerance test. so you can do that. Below is all the information you need to keep your celebrations healthy and fun for all involved.
Celebrations bring new experiences
Perhaps you plan on attending a community event or going over to a friend’s house for some 4th of July fun. Regardless, anything new will be full of possibilities and, potentially, risk. The best way to keep your experiences positive is to be aware of that risk and counteract it with knowledge.
You’ll want to factor in things like hydration and “stranger danger,” sure. But don’t forget to consider those “normal” concerns. Those include allergies and intolerances. Environmental and food allergies can become a problem when visiting someone’s home. While dealing with food intolerances can be a little easier, you’ll still want to plan for them to make the most out of your plan.
Allergies are more common than you think
Perhaps you’re scoffing at this. After all, who will be thinking about allergies and intolerances during a party? The thing is, dealing with this chronic health problem is much more common than you’d think. In fact, food allergies or food intolerances appear in 1% of adults and 7% of children! Remembering that can help keep priorities in mind for your 4th of July celebration.
It’s not just what’s in the food
Food ingredients will be the main thing to worry about if you plan on enjoying the festivities. But don’t forget about cross-contamination, also known as cross-contact. This is when a factory produces many foods that contain different allergens. In these cases, many facilities can’t guarantee no contact between one food type and the other. Potential issues include shared machinery, inferior cleaning, or air filtering.
Cross-contact can be a problem in packaged foods. Those with severe allergies should check the packaging for potential allergens. It’s also a problem if food is served buffet-style since cross-contamination happens easily. It’s very common and can be an issue, especially in social situations where emotions are high.
Allergies can be managed
This may sound upsetting at first, but it doesn’t mean those with allergies can’t enjoy a party without fear. It’s just about understanding the safe way to do it. The first step is to know exactly what you’re dealing with by making time for an allergy and intolerance test. This is a simple at-home test that you can order to give you accurate results about what you are allergic and intolerant to.
Once you get that information, you can immediately start educating yourself. You will learn about common allergen and intolerance sources and how to avoid them. You can also learn what you can enjoy in their place so you don’t feel like you are missing out. Management comes from proper acknowledgment and education on what may cause a problem in a new environment.
Tips to celebrating the 4th of July safely with allergies
So, now that you know the potential risks, what do you do? Here are some tips for celebrating, even with allergies and intolerances. This helps you focus on the fun, like everyone else.
Always have allergy or intolerance medication on you
Always having your allergy or intolerance medications with you is one of the most important things to help keep events safe. These will keep you equipped in case of an emergency and can also help you relax as far as potential nerves.
Go only to events where you feel safe
Speaking of nerves, you’ll want to try to stick to attending 4th of July events where you feel “safe”. These would be events where people are aware of allergies or intolerances. They could also be small events where you don’t feel so overwhelmed by the potential risk of having a reaction. It could also mean going out with specific people you know who take you seriously or being cautious about what events you attend.
Avoid charcuterie of buffets with known allergens
Remember how we talked about cross-contamination? You’ll want to avoid tasting anything from charcuterie boards or buffets where there is a known allergen. Not only is this a recipe for disaster, but it also can cause you to worry.
Avoid peer pressure
Whether from those unaware of your allergies or intolerances or people you’re trying to impress, peer pressure can make eating “dangerous” foods worthwhile. Do what you can to resist that pressure because a reaction is never going to be worth its social advantages.
Have backup snacks or plans
Those with allergies or intolerances know to have safe snacks with them. If you are going to an event where you’re unsure of the food situation, bring those with you, and haul them out if needed. It’ll do a lot for your peace of mind, and you won’t feel like you are missing out.
Remember the importance of staying safe from allergies and intolerances for any of your celebratory plans. Equip yourself with facts with an allergy and intolerance test. When in doubt, avoid any problems and fall back on your known safe foods so that you can enjoy the event, too. Surround yourself with those that support your decision for added comfort and enjoyment.
Now that you’ve got the information you need, you’ll be equipped to head out to celebrate in style and know how to do it safely. Enjoy your festivities, and remember to focus on the meaning of Independence Day!
