One concern that I hear a lot around traveling is food allergies. Which is totally understandable. At the least, a food allergy or sensitivity can make you feel miserable. At the worst, it could mean a trip to the hospital in the midst of your holiday.
But we've found that other countries are much more sensitive and aware of food allergies than within the US. In many European countries, there are coded numbers that correspond with certain allergens that are listed with menus to help diners navigate any potential pitfalls. Several European countries (Italy included) has a strenuous celiac friendly restaurant system. It is routine to see both gluten free and dairy free options even in small cafes (although sometimes they are prepackaged items and not made in house).
I snapped this picture at a Conad City earlier this trip. Just look at the variety of milks. I honestly think this may include more dairy or lactose free options than my grocery in Texas. There is rice, almond, coconut, soy, oat, lactose-free, you name it, available even at a smaller store. The gluten-free aisle has just as many robust options for pasta and pastries.
Menus in Europe routinely list allergens from gluten to shellfish to dairy. Its routine to have a list in the menu or on-request at the counter for common allergens for diners to review. Even our less common allergy (pineapple) is taken seriously. Even my sensitivity to perservatives isn't an issue as the most common triggers for me aren't allowed in the EU (certain artifical colors and perservatives).
Celiac's disease is also taken seriously in Europe (a handful of countries even routinely screen for it now). In Italy, the AIC accredits restaurants that are celiac safe along with thousands of products at the grocery store to prevent crosscontaminations. The English version of their website is very good and beneficial for planning restaurant visits throughout Italy. Similarly, France also has the AFDIAG that offers a holiday guide in English for visitors that includes French translations for common celiac requests and needs. The coeliac foundation in the United Kingdom provides similar travel guides for more than 50 destinations. It includes groceries that offer celiac products, contacts for the country's celiac groups, information on lodging and dining, and helpful translations. A one month membership costs £1.25 (about $1.50), you can get access to all of the downloadable guides.
The biggest reminder is to carry allergy information with you (especially if you have an EpiPen), know how to contact emergency services in the country you are visiting, and to learn the food names in the local language if possible. We are working on printable food allergy cards to carry with you so stay tuned!
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