Common Allergens
Wheat & Gluten
DID YOU KNOW? If a food product is labeled “gluten free” then it is safe to assume that it is also wheat free. However, if a product is labeled “wheat free” it may still contain gluten. FAST FACTS Wheat is the most common type of grain in the US and is one of the top...
Tree nuts
DID YOU KNOW? Packaged food products containing tree nuts are required to label their product as such; however, foods prepared in restaurants are not required to label allergens. Be sure to inform all restaurants of your allergy before ordering! FAST FACTS...
Shellfish & Fish
DID YOU KNOW? Those allergic to shellfish are more likely to be allergic to other invertebrates like dust mites and insects. FAST FACTS In terms of allergies, the three most relevant seafood groups are fish, crustacean, and mollusks. Crustaceans and mollusks are most...
Sesame
DID YOU KNOW? Sesame is widely used in personal care products, like moisturizers and cosmetics. Be sure to check the labels before purchasing such products! FAST FACTS Sesame allergy is the most common seed allergy and appears to be increasing in prevalence. Similar...
Mustard & Sulphur Dioxide
DID YOU KNOW? Mustard belongs to the same family as cabbage, brussels sprouts, broccoli, turnips, and radishes. Though not extensively studied, it’s possible for those with a mustard allergy to also be sensitive to one of the aforementioned vegetables. FAST FACTS...
Eggs
DID YOU KNOW? Gerbs Chia Seed Meal can be a great replacement for eggs when baking! For each “egg,” mix 1 tablespoon of Gerbs Chia Seed Meal with 3 tablespoons of water. Allow to rest for 5-10 minutes, until mixture becomes gel-like. FAST FACTS...
Dairy
DID YOU KNOW? 80% of children with a milk allergy outgrow it before they turn 16 years old! FAST FACTS The term dairy encompasses animal milk and milk products such as cheese, ice cream, butter, yogurt, etc. In the United States, dairy allergy most commonly references...
Peanuts, Soy & Legumes
DID YOU KNOW? Legume allergies (excluding peanut and soy) are less prevalent and are not considered a top 8 allergen. Additionally, having a peanut allergy does not increase your chances of having clinical reactions to other legumes. FAST FACTS Contrary to popular...
Managing Food Allergies
What’s on Mom’s Mind
What’s On Mom’s Mind? is a bi-weekly, Facebook Live video series hosted by Gerbs’ Nutrition Moms (and registered dietitians) Sheri Kasper, RD, LDN and Stephanie Ferrari, MS, RD. The Gerbs community is invited to post comments and questions so please tell us what...
At Events & Parties
Celebrations can cause major stress for individuals with food allergies. Whether you’re hosting a party or attending one, communication is key. Be sure that the host and guests know about any severe food allergies. Here are some tips to keep your family and guests...
While Traveling
Traveling to new or old places can be extremely exciting but it can also be scary for families with food allergies. While there are many factors beyond your control when traveling, planning ahead can help make your trip safe and fun. Be sure to check out FARE’s...
At School & Camp
First of all Parents…you are doing a great job keeping your child safe and healthy! It’s no small task to learn about your child’s food allergies, make changes in your home environment, and continually ensure that your child is safe. While you probably know...