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Health & Fitness

Helpful Information on Peanut Allergies This Halloween

Find out some places to go for peanut-free treats.

Lately I have been baking a lot with my daughter. She loves to stir the spoon in the bowl and she has become a pro at cracking eggs and turning on the electric blender.

Since baking has become a favorite hobby for the two of us, our house seems to always be stocked with brownies, cookies and cupcakes. This has become a problem for a couple of reasons.

First, there is nothing worse than a tot on a sugar high before bedtime and second, and more important, my hubby and I do not need the extra caloric intake from the sweets. So my thought was to start sending these tasty treats to school with her to share with her teachers and classmates.

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As I was flipping through a magazine deciding which fun cupcakes we were going to make for her class for Halloween, it occurred to me, “Am I even allowed to bring treats into a classroom anymore?” I am fortunate that my daughter does not have a peanut allergy, but what if some of her classmates do?

FACTS:
• A new study reported that peanut allergies in children have more than tripled in the U.S. This is an alarming growth rate.
• Roughly three million people are allergic to peanuts and/or tree nuts.
• This allergy is potentially life-threatening and lifelong condition.

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To the computer I went to research what I can put in our sweet creations that would be safe for all kids to enjoy. I thought I would pass on a few websites since the Halloween season is upon us.

Peanut and Tree-Nut Free Candy List:
www.allergysf.com/safety/candy/nuts/

Guide of Snacks Free of Peanuts, Tree Nuts and Eggs:
www.snacksafely.com/snacklist.pdf

A friend of mine who has a son allergic to peanuts and tree nuts gave me some great recommendations for local bakeries. These are useful if you are throwing a party for the kiddies.

Blacker’s Bakeshop:
www.blackersbakeshop.com

The Icing on the Cake:
www.tiotc.com/tiotc/home.html

Starlight Creatives:
http://starlightcreatives.com

The one important thing to remember when throwing a party or baking for tots is prevention and planning play significant roles in reducing the risk of any accidents.

“A little consideration, a little thought for others, makes all the difference.” ~ Winnie the Pooh

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