Health Tip: Eating Out With Food Allergies

Suggestions to avoid a problem

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(HealthDay News) -- If you are allergic to one or more foods, dining out does include possible risks. But food allergies don't mean you have to stay home to stay safe.

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The University of Virginia Health System offers these suggestions to help reduce the risk of an allergic reaction while eating out:

• Review the ingredient list of menu items where you are eating. Try to obtain the menu ahead of time.
• Tell your server about your food allergy, and ask for information on how particular dishes are prepared. If your server isn't sure, speak to the manager or the chef.
• Don't eat from buffets or order family-style dishes, as these foods may be contaminated by other foods or utensils.
• Stay away from fried foods. The same oil may be used to fry several different dishes.

-- Diana Kohnle