Food Allergy Made Easy | Food Allergy Education Using Research & Experience, Living With Food Allergies, Food Allergy Awareness & Safety

42| What It's Like Not To Worry About Cross Contact & May Contain Allergen Labeling

Hey Food Allergy Mama,
I know many of you might be struggling with cross-contact and not only avoid foods that contain your allergen, BUT also foods that say “may contain traces of allergen”.  ​Also, some of you might be considering some sort of food allergy treatment like Xolair, OIT, or TIP, and one of the benefits of these treatments is that you don’t have to worry about small traces of your allergen.Yes, navigating cross-contact can feel like playing food roulette with our kids' safety. But what if you didn’t have to live in fear of traces of allergen and every ‘may contain’ label?What would that REALLY LOOK LIKE in everyday life?I thought you might want to know what it’s like not to have to worry about cross-contact and may contain allergen labeling because that may help you decide if treatment is right for your family.We started doing OIT about 7 years ago.  About a year and a half ago, we got to the point where we didn’t have to worry about “may contain traces of peanuts and tree nuts” anymore.Our whole world flipped upside down, in a good way!Even so, some fears have been hard to overcome, and surprisingly, some things changed less than I thought they would.So if you’re wondering what it looks like to be “in-between” where you can have traces of allergen, but no more than that, this episode is for you!So grab your favorite drink, settle in, and let's get to it. I'm cheering for you!
Corinna
NEXT STEPS:
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Get Food Allergy Help From Me With These Workshops & Templates:
Join the Food Allergy Travel Workshop
Join the Get Over The Fear of Trying New Foods Workshop.
Grab the School Food Allergy Template & School Success Pack
Grab the 90-Minute Variety Booster.
Join the Dining Out With Food Allergies Workshop
Grab the Social Event Survival Pack
 
Get The Free Resources:
Newly Diagnosed Checklist: https://www.friendlypantry.com/newly-diagnosed-with-food-allergies-guide
Food Allergy Kids Empowerment Guide(for kids aged 2-7): https://www.friendlypantry.com/fa-kids-empowerment-guide
Read The Blog
Listen to Related Episodes:
9| 10 Tips To Save Big on Allergy-Friendly Food
11| Navigating Birthday Parties With Food Allergies Like a Pro: Your 3-Step Guide
12| 3 Dealbreakers When Dining Out With Food Allergies
16|Find The Type Of Food Allergy Travel That's Perfect For Your Family
22| Oral Immunotherapy Through A Mom's Eyes
25| 3 Mistakes I Made With Food Allergy Safety At School & How To Avoid Them
 
 

41| Can Food Allergy Kids Have A Normal Life?

Hey Food Allergy Mama,
If you’ve ever found yourself wondering, Can my food allergy kid really live a normal, well-balanced life? then you’re in the right place. 
This is one of those questions that hits hard, right? I mean, it’s something we food allergy moms think about all the time—especially at diagnosis.
I still remember that moment so clearly. My mind was spinning with thoughts like, ‘Wait, does this mean no birthday cake? No cookie decorating at Christmas? No pizza at sleepovers?’ It felt like a tidal wave of emotions because until you’re in the thick of it, you don’t realize just how deeply food is woven into every part of our kids’ lives. It’s at every event, every celebration, every little moment.
That was 17 years ago, but I’ve revisited that question again and again. And if you’re anything like me, you probably have too. So today, I’m sharing my personal stories, my real-life reflections, and the life lessons I’ve learned along the way. 
Whether you're brand new to the food allergy journey or have been navigating it for a while, this episode is packed with insights that’ll make you feel seen, heard, and hopefully a little more empowered. So grab your favorite drink, settle in, and let's get to it.
I'm cheering for you!
Corinna
NEXT STEPS:
Subscribe to this podcast, and if it helped you, give it a 5-star review.  Your review makes the podcast easier to find for families that need it!
Grab the Social Event Survival Pack
Get the free resources:
Newly Diagnosed Checklist: https://www.friendlypantry.com/newly-diagnosed-with-food-allergies-guide
Food Allergy Kids Empowerment Guide(for kids aged 2-7): https://www.friendlypantry.com/fa-kids-empowerment-guide
Read The Blog:
Can Food Allergy Kids Have A Normal Life?
Listen To Related Episodes:
1| From Mistakes To Food Allergy Awareness-Why I created The Podcast
4| Truth Bomb: Why Educating Teachers About Food Allergies is Crucial, Whether You Have a 504 Allergy Plan or Not
6|The Top Secret Food Allergy Information Every Allergy Family Needs
19| Kindergarten Readiness: A Food Allergy Parent’s Essential Guide
27|Your Allergy Action Plan For School: 6 Essential Tips
 
 
 

40| Allergy Blood Test Prep: How To Make It Less Scary

Hey Food Allergy Mama,
I used to dread the regular blood tests that our Allergist would request at our food allergy follow-ups.  Scared kids, watching my child go through pain, and all the crying and consoling. They seemed to cause so much stress for my kids and it was a struggle every time. I mean it’s just something they had to do, but I always wondered if there was a way to make it easier.
Honestly, it wasn’t until my girls were MUCH older that I realized there are steps you can take to make the process of a blood draw or blood test easier. Even though I can’t turn back time and make things easier for my kids, I can help you! 
So if you have an allergy blood test in your future, don’t miss this episode, I'm cheering for you!
Corinna
NEXT STEPS:
Subscribe to this podcast, and give it a review.  Your review makes the podcast easier to find for families that need it.
 
Join the Get Over The Fear of Trying New Foods Workshop.
Grab the School Food Allergy Template & School Success Pack
Grab the 90-Minute Variety Booster.
Join the Dining Out With Food Allergies Workshop
Join the Food Allergy Travel Workshop
Grab the Social Event Survival Pack
 
Get the free resources:
Newly Diagnosed Checklist: https://www.friendlypantry.com/newly-diagnosed-with-food-allergies-guide
Food Allergy Kids Empowerment Guide(for kids aged 2-7): https://www.friendlypantry.com/fa-kids-empowerment-guide
Read The Blog:
How To Calm A Child For An Allergy Blood Test
Listen to Related Episodes:
33| Birthday Parties With Allergies: Educating Hosts Without Awkwardness
30| 3 Tips To Make Oral Food Challenges Less Stressful
19| Kindergarten Readiness: A Food Allergy Parent’s Essential Guide
13| What I Wish I Knew Sooner About Living With Food Allergies
 
 
 

39| The 8 Most Popular Teal Pumpkin Project Ideas of All Time

Hey Food Allergy Mama,
As Halloween creeps closer, I know you may be feeling a mix of excitement and worry. But what if this year could be different? What if we could turn Halloween into an allergy-friendly celebration where your kids feel safe and included?
In today’s episode, we’re talking about the Teal Pumpkin Project—an amazing movement that makes Halloween fun without the food risk. 
Not only will we dive into why it’s so important, and some tips to make it work for your family, but I’m also going to share some fresh, creative ideas to make your home the go-to spot for allergy-friendly goodies. 
I’ll share some super creative and easy ideas to make your teal pumpkin stand out this year. We’ve got you covered with inspiration that your kids—and your neighbors—will love, without the stress!
I'm cheering for you!
Corinna
NEXT STEPS: 
Subscribe to this podcast, and give it a review.  Your review makes the podcast easier to find for families that need it.
Grab the Social Event Survival Pack
Get the free resources:
Newly Diagnosed Checklist: https://www.friendlypantry.com/newly-diagnosed-with-food-allergies-guide
Food Allergy Kids Empowerment Guide(for kids aged 2-7): https://www.friendlypantry.com/fa-kids-empowerment-guide
 
Read The Blog:
The 8 Best Non-Edible Halloween Treats For Teal Pumpkin Project
 
Listen To Related Episodes:
15| How Busy Moms Can Increase Food Allergy Awareness Every Day
11| Navigating Birthday Parties With Food Allergies Like a Pro: Your 3-Step Guide
29|Allergy Alert Bracelets: Should You Have One?
 
Check out the resources mentioned in this show:
Teal Pumpkin Project House Map

38| Allergy Mom's Survival Guide To Halloween With Food Allergies

Hey Food Allergy Mama,
Halloween is supposed to be fun, right? But for moms like us, it can feel like a minefield—hidden allergens in every treat, trick-or-treating anxiety, and trying to make sure your child is included without being put at risk. It’s a lot!
In this episode, we'll cover practical tips to keep your little ones safe while still making Halloween magical. I’ll share my strategies, insights, and some creative alternatives to the typical candy haul. Plus, I’ll give you a few ideas to help you plan a worry-free celebration.
So grab your favorite drink, settle in, and let’s make this Halloween one your kids will love—and you’ll feel good about.
I'm cheering for you!
Corinna
NEXT STEPS:
Subscribe to this podcast, and give it a review.  Your review makes the podcast easier to find for families that need it.
Grab the Social Event Survival Pack
Get the free resources:
Newly Diagnosed Checklist: https://www.friendlypantry.com/newly-diagnosed-with-food-allergies-guide
Food Allergy Kids Empowerment Guide(for kids aged 2-7): https://www.friendlypantry.com/fa-kids-empowerment-guide
 
Read The Blog:
 
Listen to Related Episodes:
33| Birthday Parties With Allergies: Educating Hosts W/O Awkwardness
13| What I Wish I Knew Sooner About Living With Food Allergies
11| Navigating Birthday Parties With Food Allergies Like a Pro: Your 3-Step Guide

37| 5 Reasons Not To Avoid Early Allergen Introduction

Hey Food Allergy Mama,
If you’ve been putting off introducing allergens & other new foods to your child—or if just the thought of doing so makes your heart race—you’re not alone. 
As moms, we want to protect our kids from harm, and when you have a history of food allergies, it can seem like every new food could be a minefield.
But research over the last few years shows that introducing allergens early could help protect your child from developing food allergies. How great would that be? In this episode, I’m sharing 5 reasons not to put off trying that new food.
Grab your favorite drink, sit back, and stick with me—because by the end of this episode, you’ll feel empowered and ready to face those new foods with a little less fear and a lot more confidence. 
I'm cheering for you!
Corinna
NEXT STEPS:
Subscribe to this podcast, and give it a review.  Your review makes the podcast easier to find for families that need it.
Join the Get Over The Fear of Trying New Foods Workshop.
Grab The Free Resources: 
Newly Diagnosed Checklist: https://www.friendlypantry.com/newly-diagnosed-with-food-allergies-guide
Food Allergy Kids Empowerment Guide(for kids aged 2-7): https://www.friendlypantry.com/fa-kids-empowerment-guide
Read The Blog:
5 Reasons Not to Avoid Early Allergen Introduction
Listen to Related Episodes:
3| Introducing Allergens: 3 Game-Changing Steps For When You're Nervous
31| Should I Keep My Child's Allergen in My Home?: Food Allergy Information For Life
Check out the resources mentioned in this show:
LEAP Study Results

36| 5 Must-Dos Before Hiring A Food Allergy Travel Agent

Hey Food Allergy Mama,
Planning a trip when your child has food allergies can feel overwhelming—especially when even the smallest hiccup can send you into a spiral of anxiety. 
And while some food allergy travel services promise peace of mind, they might come with a hefty price tag and don't always address the real fear of traveling: 'What if something goes wrong?'
In today’s episode, we're diving into 5 must-know tips to help you feel confident and in control before you hire a travel agent. 
These are simple but powerful steps to calm your mind, prepare for unexpected situations, and keep your family safe—no matter where your adventure takes you.
I'm cheering for you!
Corinna
 
NEXT STEPS:
Subscribe to this podcast, and give it a review.  Your review makes the podcast easier to find for families that need it, AND it helps me to know if this podcast is helping you!
 
Enroll in the Food Allergy Travel Workshop
 
Get the free resources:
Newly Diagnosed Checklist: https://www.friendlypantry.com/newly-diagnosed-with-food-allergies-guide
Food Allergy Kids Empowerment Guide(for kids aged 2-7): https://www.friendlypantry.com/fa-kids-empowerment-guide
 
Read The Blog:
5 Must-Dos Before Hiring a Food Allergy Travel Agent 
 
Listen to Related Episodes:
16|Find The Type Of Food Allergy Travel That's Perfect For Your Family
5| Before You Book: Allergy-Friendly All-Inclusive Resorts - Listen To This First!
7|Unlock The Magic of Disney World Allergy Menus
 
Check out the resources mentioned in this show:
Lauren Miller at Enchantaway Travel (Tell her Corinna from Friendly Pantry sent you).

35| 10 Easy Ways To Simplify Food Allergy Management & Lower Your Mental Weight

Hey Food Allergy Mama,
As a food allergy mom, you have so many tasks that pull on your already crazy schedule.
From emails for birthday parties, and play date prep, to teaching people to use epinephrine, to research for dining out, to finding a prepping safe food, the list is endless.  Add the regular mom responsibilities, from new babies to caring for kids and the most loving mom into a stressed-out, impatient woman. 
I strongly believe that lowering the mental load and saving as much time as possible are essential for protecting mental health and being a better parent too. 
That’s why these strategies are so important. 
If you’re the one responsible for food allergy management, then do yourself a favor and listen because today we’re lowering that heavy mental weight and saving you time and effort, without sacrificing food allergy safety.
I'm cheering for you!
Corinna
NEXT STEPS:
Subscribe to this podcast, and give it a review.  Your review makes the podcast easier to find for families that need it.
Grab the Social Event Survival Pack
Grab the 90-Minute Variety Booster. Recipe Ebook & Training Bundle
Get the free resources:
Food Allergy Kids Empowerment Guide(for kids aged 2-7): https://www.friendlypantry.com/fa-kids-empowerment-guide
Read The Blog:
10 Tips For Simplifying Food Allergy Management
 
Listen to Related Episodes:
14|To Food Allergy Moms With Love
6| The Secret Food Allergy Information All Food Allergy Families Need
33| Birthday Parties With Allergies: Educating Hosts W/O Awkwardness

34| Navigating Playdates With Food Allergies:5 Worry-Free Tips

Hey Food Allergy Mama,
My daughter had an allergic reaction while we were at a playdate. Honestly, it wasn't one of my best moments as a food allergy mom. We were early in our diagnosis, and I didn't now how to navigate allergies.
Today I'm sharing the lessons I learned from this experience about navigating playdates with food allergies so that you don't have to learn the hard way, like I did. 
This is perfect for those new to food allergies and if you're more experienced, this is for you too. I'll share a few questions to help you decide when your food-allergy child is ready to go to playdates without you.
I'm cheering for you!
Corinna
Next Steps:
 
Subscribe to this podcast, and give it a review.  Your review is the only way I know if you like the podcast!
 
Grab the Social Event Survival Pack
 
Get the free Food Allergy Kids Empowerment Guide(for kids aged 2-7): https://www.friendlypantry.com/fa-kids-empowerment-guide
Listen To Related Episodes:
33| Birthday Parties With Food Allergies: RSVPing W/O Awkwardness
11| Navigating Birthday Parties With Food Allergies Like a Pro: Your 3-Step Guide
 
 
 
 

33| Birthday Parties With Allergies: Educating Hosts W/O Awkwardness

Dear food allergy mama,
September starts birthday party season! Most moms are excited and happy to let their little ones join the fun.  But instead, birthday parties with food allergies can cause moms to have another round of anxiety and fear.  The risks involved can cause any food allergy mama's chest to tighten, because it means another conversation where you'll have to explain why your child can't eat what everyone else is having and then dealing with the sadness of your child missing out on the exciting cake that everyone else gets.
Even so, food allergy mamas will do whatever it takes to make sure their child gets to be part of the fun safely. Even if that means a hundred awkward conversations, just to see that special smile on their child's face.
Today, I want to take away some of that awkwardness. I'll give you 5 essential tips for educating birthday party hosts about food allergies, without feeling awkward or extra.
I'm cheering for you!
Corinna
NEXT STEPS:
Subscribe to this podcast, and give it a review.  Your review makes the podcast easier to find for other food allergy families that need it.
 
Grab the Social Event Survival Pack so you can easily educate hosts of all types about food allergies.
 
Get the free resources:
Newly Diagnosed Checklist: https://www.friendlypantry.com/newly-diagnosed-with-food-allergies-guide
Food Allergy Kids Empowerment Guide(for kids aged 2-7) https://www.friendlypantry.com/fa-kids-empowerment-guide
 
Listen To Related Episodes:
The Top Secret Food Allergy Information Every Allergy Family Needs
11| Navigating Birthday Parties With Food Allergies Like a Pro: Your 3-Step Guide
18| Help! My Brother's Wedding Menu is Full of My Child's Allergen: Food Allergy Resources