Going to parties or other events with allergies can be tough, especially when you are gluten free. Most parties with kids or teens usually have food being served, sandwiches, pizza, and other unsafe foods – all of which usually leave off a good amount of crumbs. If you do ever go to a party that’s serving food, I suggest using some of these tips:
- Eat ahead of time – If you know there is going to be lots of unsafe food at the party, make sure to fill up before you go.
- Pack your own food – If you don’t have time to eat before you go to a party that will be serving food, pack your own. Just try not to make a huge deal about it.
- Sit somewhere safe – Try to find a spot to eat away from any food you feel uncomfortable being around. Do this in a subtle fashion so you don’t draw too much attention to yourself or hurt peoples feelings.
- Subtle Snack – If you’re going to a party that’s for someone’s birthday, wedding, or other special occasion take a little snack in your purse or pocket that you can eat somewhere where you won’t make the star of the party worry about your food.
- Wash your hands – Always wash your hands before you eat, no matter what! It’s the easiest way to stay safe.
Just to give a bit more context, let’s get a little more detailed with these tips.
Eating ahead of time is always the easiest way to avoid eating near gluten. If you eat a meal or a filling snack before you leave, you don’t have to be worried about getting cross contaminated.
Packing your own food should usually be a last resort option for if you don’t have time to eat before you go to a party.
When trying to find a spot to sit without being right next to unsafe food, try to be discreet so you don’t seem like you want to be away from people.
Finally, keeping a snack with you is always a good idea. If you’re going to a party that is about a specific person, let them focus on their special day instead of making them worry about accommodating your allergy/allergies.
Don’t be stressed about eating, just have fun and be safe!
– GFree Girl