Navigating Your Child’s Food Allergies During Halloween
Whether it’s the costumes, the decorations, or, of course, the candy, Halloween is one of the most exciting nights of the year for kids. But for families managing food allergies, trick-or-treating can feel more spooky than fun. With so many popular treats containing common allergens such as nuts, dairy, soy, or gluten, it can be challenging for these families to enjoy the night fully.
The good news? With a little awareness and preparation, we can help make Halloween safer and more enjoyable for every child, whether they have food allergies or not.
What Adults Can Do
Before Halloween night, take a few minutes to review allergy-safe candy lists or check ingredient labels on popular treats. Even if your child doesn’t have food allergies, being aware of safe options helps make trick-or-treating more fun for everyone. If you’re handing out candy, consider offering a few allergen-safe treats so all kids can enjoy stopping by your house. Consider setting out a second bowl with non-food treats, such as small toys or stickers, to give children the choice between candy and allergen-safe options.
If your child does have food allergies and plans to go trick-or-treating, a quick chat with your neighbors ahead of time can go a long way. Sharing allergen-safe treat ideas or offering to provide a few safe items yourself helps ensure your child can join in the fun safely.
Teaching Kids to Read Labels
Halloween is a great opportunity to teach your child how to identify safe foods and read ingredient labels carefully. Encourage them to check every candy before eating, especially unfamiliar ones. As an example, show them how “mini” or “fun-size” versions of candy can sometimes contain different ingredients than the regular-sized ones. You can even turn it into a game or family challenge to spot potential allergens together.
Helping kids develop this habit early empowers them to make safe and confident food choices year-round, not just on Halloween.
Look for the Teal Pumpkin
The Teal Pumpkin Project, started by FARE (Food Allergy Research & Education), encourages households to offer non-food treats such as stickers, glow sticks, or small toys. Placing a teal pumpkin outside your door lets families know you’re offering allergy-safe options.
Even if your family doesn’t deal with allergies, participating in the Teal Pumpkin Project is a simple way to make Halloween more welcoming for everyone.
Hosting an Allergy-Safe Halloween Party
If you’re organizing a class, neighborhood, or community party, keep snacks simple and label everything clearly. Fruit kabobs, popcorn, and rice cereal treats made with allergy-safe ingredients are easy and crowd-pleasing options.
For an even safer celebration, shift the focus from food to fun! Plan costume contests, craft stations, scavenger hunts, or spooky games to keep kids engaged and active throughout the event.
A Halloween Everyone Can Enjoy
Halloween should be about creativity, laughter, and fun, not worry. By planning ahead and spreading awareness, we can make sure every child feels included in the magic of the season. Whether you’re trick-or-treating, handing out candy, or hosting a party, small steps can make a big difference. Happy (and safe) haunting!
Sources:
FARE: The Teal Pumpkin Project
Kids with Food Allergies: Allergy-Friendly Candy Guide (2025)
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