Photo: Hy-Vee
Are you hosting this holiday season? While Hy-Vee dietitians can’t help you clean your kitchen in preparation for your guests, we can help you navigate their food allergies and dietary concerns. There are 33 million Americans with food allergies, including one in 13 children.
Start by asking guests to inform you of food allergies as they RSVP. Then, communicate which allergens guests should avoid if they plan to bring a dish to share. Finally, if a guest plans to bring an allergen-friendly option to share, provide them tips on avoiding cross-contamination by preparing their dish using clean utensils on clean surfaces and serving dishes in their home kitchen.
Gluten and dairy are two key allergens to focus on during the holiday season:
Gluten—a protein found in wheat, barley, rye and a wheat-rye hybrid called triticale—can cause gastrointestinal discomfort or severe reactions in individuals with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. Look for gluten-free mixes for classic Thanksgiving sides, including stuffing. Try Good Graces’ Gluten Free Herb Seasoned Vegetable Stuffing Mix, which is available at the Health Market. If you prefer to bake from scratch, try this recipe for Herbed Gluten-Free Dinner Rolls found at hy-vee.com.
Dairy is another common allergen found in milk, cheese and ice cream. It’s also commonly present in dessert items, so consider swapping your traditional whipped topping for So Delicious Dairy Free Cocowhip™.
Melissa Jaeger is a Hy-Vee registered dietitian. Visit hy-vee.com, or follow the dietitians on Instagram @hyveedietitians.
