Hands up if you love to BBQ! We understand that living with food allergies and intolerances can be unpleasant and can sometimes complicate life and even BBQs. However, having a food intolerance doesn’t have to ruin your life, these can be managed.
Allergy Test Australia are going to help! We are going to give you information so that you can manage your food allergy and/or intolerance and live an easier, happier life and throw the best BBQ party ever!
Food allergies and intolerances are a growing concern in Australia as 1 in 20 children and about 1 in 100 adults suffer in Australia. (Approximately 65,000 children and 96,000 adults). In fact, Australia has one of the highest allergy prevalence rates in the world. Having a food intolerance means you will experience a reaction to certain foods and symptoms can include:
- Stomach and bowel upsets
- Bloating
- Headaches and migraines
- Wheezing and a runny nose
- Hives
Do you often worry about going to a family BBQ and feeling unwell afterwards? Well, we are going to give you some tips so that you can throw your own and attend a BBQ party without the worry!
Throwing your own may be a little less stressful as you are in control of what you buy and what goes into your food. If you personally have a food intolerance or shop for someone who does it is important that you always check the label on pre-packaged food INCLUDING WINE AND BEER! Food labelling rules in Australia state that the eight most common allergens (crustaceans, eggs, fish, milk, peanuts, soybeans, tree nuts, sesame seeds, and their products), cereals containing gluten and their products, as well as sulphite preservatives, must be declared on packaging or in connection with the display. These allergens are not always easy to find on labels. Other words may also refer to the allergen, eg a milk product may be referred to as casein so be careful and vigilant. Pinterest is also a fantastic place to find allergy-free recipes.
Now, for visiting elsewhere may be a little bit trickier but you need to be prepared. Follow our top tips so that you never have to worry again:
- Talk with the host before attending – If you are going to a summer event, more than likely it is being hosted by a friend so just make them aware of your intolerance/allergy so that they can make some alternatives for you.
- Bring “Safe” side dishes or desserts – You may feel more comfortable in bringing some suitable dishes that are safe for you to eat.
- Take precaution on the grill – Some BBQ sauces will contain peanuts which can leave the grill cross contaminated. They make disposable liners that are great for avoiding food allergens. Simply place the liner on the grill, have your food cooked and then it can be thrown away.
- Eat before you go – it may be worthwhile having a snack or meal before you go.
We hope that this has helped you feel more positive about managing your food intolerance and if you are worried that you are suffering but cannot pinpoint the cause you can order your test HERE.
