Halloween & Food Allergies:

Halloween is a fun and exciting time for kids, but for children with food allergies, it can also be risky. Many popular treats contain common allergens or are processed in facilities that handle allergens, making it important for families and neighbors to stay informed and prepared.

Common Allergens Found in Halloween Candy

Some of the most common food allergens that appear in Halloween candy include:

 • Peanuts and tree nuts (in chocolate, nougat, or fillings)

 • Milk/dairy (in chocolate and creamy fillings)

 • Eggs (used in some baked treats or nougat)

 • Soy (common in chocolate and candy coatings)

 • Wheat/gluten (in cookies, wafers, or chewy candies)

 • Artificial dyes and additives (may cause reactions in sensitive individuals)

Always read ingredient labels carefully—even for candies you think you know. Manufacturers sometimes change their recipes or production facilities.

What to Do If a Child Eats a Problem Food

If a child with a known allergy accidentally eats an unsafe treat:

 • Act quickly. Mild reactions may include hives, stomach pain, or swelling. Severe reactions (anaphylaxis) can include trouble breathing, vomiting, or loss of consciousness.

 • Administer medication. Give antihistamines or use an epinephrine auto-injector (like an EpiPen) if prescribed.

 • Call 911 immediately if there's a severe reaction or if epinephrine was used.

 • Monitor symptoms and stay with the child until emergency services arrive.

Always have emergency medication and an action plan ready on Halloween night.

The Teal Pumpkin Project: A Safer Way to Celebrate

The Teal Pumpkin Project is a nationwide initiative promoting inclusion of kids with food allergies. By placing a teal-colored pumpkin outside your home, you're signaling that you offer non-food treats for trick-or-treaters.

Non-food treat ideas include:

 • Stickers or temporary tattoos

 • Glow sticks or small toys

 • Pencils, erasers, or crayons

 • Bubbles, spider rings, or slime

These options help ensure that all children can enjoy Halloween safely—not just those without allergies.

Let’s make Halloween fun and safe for everyone! Consider offering allergy-friendly treats and joining the Teal Pumpkin Project to support kids with food allergies in your community.