A food allergy occurs when a person’s immune systems reacts to a food protein that is harmless for most people.

Read ingredient labels every time a food is purchased because ingredients and manufacturing processes can change.

Even if the food has been a ‘safe’ food in the past it is important to check the food label every time.

Wash your hands thoroughly with warm soapy water and dry thoroughly before preparing food. Make sure chopping boards are cleaned well in warm soapy water. 

There are different strategies to reduce risk - for very young children you may choose not to have the allergen in the home. Keep foods in their original packaging where possible.