5 Tips on How to Have an Allergy-Friendly Valentine's Day!

Valentine's Day is just around the corner and though it may be a favorite to many, it can leave partners and loved ones feeling left out. From a box of chocolates to a night out, many traditional V-Day activities can pose a risk to those with food allergies. With a little planning and safe execution, we'll make sure you and your loved one(s) have the best day possible! Here's a couple of tips and tricks to keep your Valentine's Day allergy-friendly:

1. Choose Allergy-Friendly Treats

Chocolate is known as a Valentine's Day essential, but most brands contain common allergens like dairy, nuts, or soy. Instead of taking a chance at your local grocery store try ordering from allergy-friendly brands such as:

• No Whey! Foods who offer milk, peanut, tree nut, egg, soy, and gluten free snacks and chocolates.
• Free2b who offer sweets that are top 9 free, be sure to check out their sun-cups!
• Enjoy Life who offer an array of chocolate chips that are top 9 free, so you can bake your loved ones something special.

2. Plan a Safe Dinner

If you're planning a night on the town. be sure to do ample research to ensure your partner will have options on the menu. As an extra precaution, be sure to call ahead and ensure accommodations can be made to ensure a wonderful evening. If you're planning a night in be sure to avoid cross contamination and recipes with alarming ingredients. If you're unsure about a certain product and its ingredients be sure to use the Allervision Tech app to scan ingredients and ensure peace of mind while cooking. Some allergy friendly meals include:

• Italian Stuffed Peppers- enjoy an easy home cooked meal with your loved one that's egg, wheat, peanut, soy, and tree nut-free!
• Purple Chicken Ramen- try out this out of the box recipe with your partner that's top 8 free!
• Veal Marsala- savor this easy high-end dish that happens to be top 8 free!

3. Communicate and Ask Questions

When celebrating with someone who has allergies ask about their triggers and navigate a way to keep the day safe. If you have allergies, never be afraid to speak up, your safety is more important than anything, a caring partner will want you to have a great day!

For your partner with allergies:

• I was thinking of trying [restaurant/recipe], but I want to make sure it works for you too. What do you think?
• I know some places can be tricky with ingredients—do you have any go-to spots or favorites?
• I’d love to cook something we can both enjoy. Any must-avoid ingredients, and would you prefer if I keep the product labels?
• Just so I know, if something doesn’t sit right with you, what’s the best way I can help?

For your allergy-free partner:

• That place looks great! Mind if I double-check their menu first?
• I usually bring something I know is safe—would that be cool with you?
• I know ingredient lists can be a headache, so I’m happy to help pick something that works for both of us!

4. DIY Gifts to Show Your Love

If you're still unsure on how to navigate the holiday, you can't go wrong making something hand made from allergy-friendly products. A couple of fun ideas include:

• Crepe Paper Heart- try making an arts and crafts heart to stand out in a bouquet of flowers!
• Pop Out Card- if you're looking for a challenge this V-Day take a shot at this triple pop-out card!
• A Love Letter- when in doubt you can never go wrong with a handwritten letter for your partner.

5. Plan an Activity Date

Take the pressure off of food completely this holiday. Plan a date that focuses on each other or an activity to ensure a memorable day. Here are a couple game ideas:

• We're Not Really Strangers (couple's edition)- try out this card game to test your partner and build a closer bond.
• It Takes Two- try out this popular video game with your valentine to navigate puzzles with your loved one.
• The Couples Game- give this popular couple's card game a chance to learn more about the one you love.

An allergy-friendly holiday isn't just possible, it will be as fun, romantic, and thoughtful as any other celebration. By taking the pressure off the holiday (and a few precautions) you can focus on what really matters, spending time with the person you love.