Before you wrap up that plate of cookies, read this list of what not to give people with food allergies:
- Homemade food. Even if all the ingredients are safe for your gift recipient, the risk that something else made its way into the food (cross-contamination) is too great. Most people with food allergies will politely accept a gift of homemade food, but we are unlikely to eat it.
- Lotions, soaps, or massage oils. Nuts, dairy products, or soy are often in bath and spa products. We feel safer shopping for these ourselves.
- Scented candles or perfumes. Many of us also have environmental allergies or asthma, and artificial scents can aggravate our symptoms.
- Spatulas, wooden spoons, or aprons. We spend a lot of time in the kitchen, but for most of us it is a necessity, not a hobby. Unless your gift recipient is a celebrity chef wanna-be it is best to steer clear of culinary gadgets. (As opposed to the labor-saving kind)
