Every October, children of all ages look forward to celebrating Halloween by trick-or-treating, but for children with food allergies and their parents, Halloween treats can be frightful. Candy and other treats often have common food allergens as an ingredient or have a risk of cross-contamination during production.

For parents with children who have food allergies, here are some tips on how to keep your kids safe while celebrating the spirit of Halloween:

1. Refrain from eating any treats until the end of the night after all food labels have been reviewed.
2. Avoid any treats that do not have an ingredient label, such as homemade treats.
3. Keep your child’s epinephrine auto-injector close by.
4. Check out the Teal Pumpkin Project. The Teal Pumpkin Project aims to raise awareness and provide safe options for trick-or-treaters with food allergies. Participants put a teal pumpkin outside of their home or business to indicate they have safe treats available.
5. Remind your child that trick-or-treating is just part of the Halloween fun. An alternative to trick-or-treating? Throw a Halloween party with allergen-friendly treats, games, and prizes.