A good hostess tries to be a sensitive to her guests dietary need–especially in this day and age of some pretty serious food allergies. One of our friends who frequents our house for dinner has a wheat allergy, and we always have to be diligent about what goes in the food, from the most insignificant sauces like soy sauce to seasonings. I’ve also run into a lot of moms who have to be incredibly conscious of food allergies with play dates in their home so snack-time doesn’t turn into a trip to the ER!
My friend Megan told me of one sweet little girl would would come over to her house for playdates who had a number of food allergies. When the little girl was very young, Megan used to cut out a picture of the little girl and attach it to a toothpick and place it in the food that was safe for her to eat. As the girl got older, Megan moved on to handwritten signs the little girl could read to mark “safe” foods.
There are so many of you out there affected by food allergies in one way or another, I’m happy to offer this free printable! These are to label gluten-free, nut-free, dairy-free, egg-free, and dye-free foods you may be offering to your guests.
Print to white cardstock, cut out, and tape the little labels to a toothpick, coffee stirrer, or lollipop stick. You can download the file here!
I could cry right now! My peanut/tree nut allergy daughter has so many issues going on play dates and to parties. If these were on a dish or table, she just might jump for joy! (I know I would! I hate making the “food phone call” to a caterer or take out place out of ear shot of the hostess as not to offend.) This is such a great idea. I am printing them for use in our own home! Thank you, thank you, thank you.
thanks for this! soooo awesome!
This is super sweet & a great!
Thanks for sharing, Paula.
Great post!!! I have friends with allergies and those that are vegetarian & they always tell me how much it means to them to have the food pre-marked so they don’t have to ask what’s safe!
hugs! Kim @ Party Frosting!
With the rise in peanut allergies, wonder why I haven’t seen these earlier! thank you and my daughter (with a peanut allergy) thanks you!
Paula – thank you thank you thank you!!! I’ll echo what the previous comments were. This is so fabulous!
I’m bringing baked goods to a Cub Scout holiday party tonight and found you through One Pretty Thing when looking for appropriate food labels. Thank you very much from another appreciative parent!
My family has multiple food allergies. These will be great for parties!! Thanks so much :.)