The most important thing to keep in mind when preparing food for someone with food allergies is that the tiniest little amount of an allergen can cause an allergic reaction.
Here are some tips and techniques on how to reduce the risk of cross-contamination in your kitchen and dining area.
Start with a clean slate
Before preparing or serving food, wash hands with a liquid or bar soap or use commercial hand wipes (not hand sanitizer). This ensures that allergen proteins are washed off.
Wipe down counters, tables, and other surfaces with household cleaners and a clean cloth or paper towel.
Carefully wash all utensils, pots and pans and cutting boards with dish detergent and water, using a sponge that has not had contact with allergens.
Minimize the risk of cross-contact
If cooking several foods at the same time, cook the allergen-free meal first. Keep it covered and away from any splatter caused by other foods during cooking.
Do not share cooking utensils or containers between foods.
Safety at the dinner table
Notify all guests of ingredients/allergens present in dishes, and make sure they are aware of any people with allergies present
Keep dishes with known allergens far away from allergen-free dishes.
Do not share serving utensils between dishes
Seat young children with food allergies far from reach of any food with allergens and ensure they are supervised by an adult while eating
Always keep an epinephrine auto-injector present and within easy reach.
