Navigating food allergies at school: A nutritionist shares her top tips

Nutritionist, Monique Cormack for Buddee

The rising rate of food allergies in children is a growing concern. A recent Australian study found that approximately 1 in 20 school-aged children has a clinically proven food allergy.

Allergic reactions can be life threatening. It’s estimated that 6% of children will experience an anaphylactic allergic reaction, which involves constriction of the airways.

The serious nature of allergic reactions means we have seen a corresponding tightening of school rules such as the no-nut policy.

Here are some key tips for overcoming lunchbox allergy challenges:

1. Become a label reading pro

The most common food allergens are wheat, peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, eggs, milk, fish, soy, sesame seeds and lupin.

Recent changes to the Food Standards Code have imposed requirements on manufacturers to identify allergens more clearly. The changes include using consistent names (for example ‘egg’ not ‘albumin’) and displaying allergen declarations in a specific format, bold text and location on a food label.

So first things first, look for the allergy statement in bold that begins with “Contains: (name of allergen/s)”.

What about those “may contain traces of…” statements? Unfortunately, Precautionary Allergy Labels are voluntary statements and are not regulated. If the food is intended for a child with severe allergies, medical clearance should be obtained.

2. Communicate clearly with your child

This might be a no-brainer, but once your child is old enough to attend school then they are old enough for a conversation about food allergies. Even if your child does not have any allergies, explain that other children may not be able to eat the same foods that they do and provide guidance on food sharing.

The National Allergy Strategy and Allergy Aware provide a range of resources for parents, children and educators to promote allergy awareness and keep our little ones safe.

3. Reach for nut-free alternatives

Peanuts and tree nuts are some of the most common allergens and they can also be the most severe. Many education providers impose a strict ‘no nuts and seeds’ policy.

If peanut butter is a household staple and you’re wondering how on earth you’ll replace it, look to local Melbourne brand Buddee. Buddee’s range of three school-safe spreads are made from a chickpea base. They are free from peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, dairy, egg, soy, sesame, fish, shellfish and lupin.

4. Feed them a rainbow

If you need another incentive to include fruits and vegetables in your lunchbox, consider that these foods are largely allergen-safe!

The majority of Australian children do not meet their recommended fruit and vegetable intake. Frequent exposure to foods as well as positive role modelling are fundamental techniques for building acceptance. Involve your child in the lunchbox-making process, whether that’s shopping for groceries together or asking them to help make a sandwich.

5. Top up their calcium intake

Children require a significant amount of calcium to support their growing bones, yet the increasing rate of allergies has seen a rise in the use of dairy-free alternatives.

If you are regularly providing a dairy-free substitute for milk or yoghurt, check the label to ensure that the product is calcium-fortified. The amount of calcium per serve should be listed as part of the nutrition information panel.

Monique Cormack is an Accredited Nutritionist with expertise in preconception, pregnancy and postnatal care. She works in private practice with individuals and couples to optimise their nutrition and create healthy families.