How Schools Are Catering To Students With Food Intolerances

It’s that time of year again-Back to School! Along with all of the back-to-school logistics in place, one of them includes managing student allergies and intolerances. This is a significant public health concern that is being taken very seriously for the safety, health and wellbeing of students. It is estimated that allergies affect 8% of students in the United States, which is about 1 out of 13 children, or 2 students per classroom. The eight foods that account for most serious allergic reactions in the United States include milk, eggs, fish, crustacean shellfish, wheat, soy, peanuts, and tree nuts. Due the large rise in allergies and intolerances, schools are increasingly taking steps to accommodate students with food intolerances.

The CDC in consultation with the US Department of Education developed Voluntary Guidelines for managing food allergies in Schools and Early Care and Education Programs to provide practical information and recommendations for each of the priority areas that should be addressed in each school’s Food Allergy Management Prevention Plan. Here’s how they typically cater to these needs:

1. Individualized Meal Plans

Schools often work with parents, students, and healthcare providers to develop individualized meal plans that accommodate specific food allergies/intolerances, as well as daily management of allergies/intolerances. These plans ensure that students have access to safe and nutritious meals.

2. Labeling and Allergen Information

Many schools label their cafeteria foods with allergen information, allowing students and staff to make informed choices. Some schools provide detailed ingredient lists for each meal.

3. Dedicated Allergen-Free Zones

Some schools designate specific areas in the cafeteria for students with food intolerances or allergies. These zones help prevent cross-contamination with allergens.

4. Specialized Training for Staff

School cafeteria staff receive training on food allergies and intolerances. This training includes how to handle food safely, avoid cross-contamination, and recognize the symptoms of an allergic reaction, and prepare for food allergy emergencies.

5. Safe Snacks and Treats

For classrooms and events, schools may encourage or require safe snacks and treats that are free from common allergens. Some schools have policies that limit or ban certain foods to protect students with severe allergies.

6. Communication with Parents and Students

Schools maintain open lines of communication with parents and students to stay updated on any changes in dietary needs. This can include regular meetings or updates on food intolerance management.

7. Substitute Foods

When possible, schools may have substitute foods for common allergens (e.g., gluten-free bread, dairy-free milk) available so that students with allergies/intolerances can enjoy similar meals to their peers.

8. Education and Awareness

Many schools conduct awareness programs to educate students and staff about food intolerances, promoting an inclusive environment and reducing the risk of accidental exposure.

9. Emergency Action Plans

For students with severe allergies, schools often have emergency action plans in place, including the availability of medications like epinephrine auto-injectors and staff trained to respond to allergic reactions.

These measures help create a safer and more inclusive environment for students with food intolerances, ensuring they can participate fully in school activities without compromising their health.

Allergy and intolerance testing is important!

Testing, proper education and awareness are the first step to managing allergies and intolerances safely and effectively. Allergies can be tested through a skin prick, blood testing, or a blood spot. Our state of the art and accurate at-home allergy and Intolerance tests will show you all the information you need to deal with allergies and intolerances.

These tests offer fast and cost-effective way to screen for the most allergies and intolerances. This amazing, inexpensive, and easy test takes away weeks and sometimes months of waiting for an appointment for an allergy test! It uses ELISA testing for raised IgE antibodies, and with a simple blood spot offers accurate lab validated results. It is extremely easy to use. Once purchased, you will receive delivery of the CE-approved sample collection kit within 3 working days, with easy instructions. As always, after reviewing your results, we always recommend following up with your licensed health care provider for further treatment.