People who are diagnosed with food allergies need to avoid eating the foods that trigger their symptoms.
However, simply avoiding those allergenic foods often isnt enough to eliminate symptomsthats where cross-contamination comes in.
Cross-contamination comes up whenever a food allergen contaminates a food that is naturally free of allergens.
Raphye Alexius / Getty Images
This problem also can occur in manufacturing facilities.
Cross-contamination can occur almost anywhere, at home, in restaurants, at school or on manufacturing lines.
Cross-contamination can happen during food preparation, cooking, storage, or even when serving.
This is the safest way to avoid cross-contamination.
Speak to a manager before ordering to ensure the staff understands your food allergy-related needs.
Still, despite a restaurants best efforts, cross-contamination can still occur if all safe practices are not upheld.
double-check theyre washed thoroughly with hot soapy water.
Clean with a household cleaning agent thoroughly to prevent cross-contamination.
Refrain from sharing cups or eating utensils with others, as they can easily be contaminated with allergens.
Bagel or meat slicers, if not cleaned thoroughly, may be contaminated with food allergens.
Always ask the store manager if cross-contamination precautions have been taken.
Beyond Celiac Research Foundation.Cross-Contact.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration.Food allergies.
Food Allergy Research and Education Foundation.Prevent Cross-Contact.
Food Allergy Canada.Avoiding Cross-Contamination.
