Halloween is full of excitement- costumes, decorations, and plenty of candy. But for families managing food allergies, this holiday can also bring extra challenges. Many popular treats contain peanuts, milk, soy, or other allergens, and cross-contact is common during trick-or-treating.
With a little preparation, your child can still have a fun and safe Halloween. Here are some expert tips from Baz Allergy, Asthma & Sinus Center, trusted by Central Valley families across Fresno, Clovis, Visalia, Madera, Merced, Hanford, and Bakersfield.
1. Plan Ahead Before Trick-or-Treating
Before heading out, review your child’s allergy action plan. Make sure their epinephrine auto-injector (EpiPen) or any other emergency medications are up to date and easily accessible.
If your child will be trick-or-treating with friends, talk to supervising adults about which foods to avoid and how to respond to allergy symptoms like hives, swelling, or trouble breathing.
2. Look for Allergy-Friendly Events Near You
Central Valley communities are becoming more allergy-aware, and many now host events that make Halloween safer for all kids.
Consider:
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🎃 Trunk-or-Treat events hosted by churches and schools with better supervision and allergy-safe treats.
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👻 Teal Pumpkin Project homes, where families hand out small non-food items such as glow sticks or stickers.
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🕸️ Community events in Fresno, Visalia, and Clovis, where kids can enjoy games, crafts, and costume contests, no candy required!
Check your local parks and recreation department or Facebook community pages for updated event listings.
3. Spot the Teal Pumpkin
If you see a teal pumpkin outside a home, that means the residents are offering non-food goodies for children with allergies, part of the national Teal Pumpkin Project.
You can also join in by placing a teal pumpkin on your porch and stocking up on fun alternatives like bubbles, pencils, stickers, or temporary tattoos. It’s an easy way to help every child feel included.
4. Bring Your Own Safe Treats
Let your child collect candy with friends, but plan to trade unsafe items for a stash of pre-approved treats at home. This “swap system” allows them to enjoy the fun while you stay worry-free.
Some allergy-conscious candy brands to try include:
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YumEarth – organic, nut-free gummies and lollipops
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Enjoy Life Foods – free from the top 14 allergens
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Free2b – dairy- and nut-free chocolate cups
5. Always Read Labels
Even small “fun-size” candies can have different ingredients or be produced in shared facilities. Always check packaging carefully, and avoid homemade or unlabeled goodies. When in doubt, toss it out.
6. Focus on the Fun Beyond Food
Halloween doesn’t have to revolve around candy. Try family activities like:
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Pumpkin decorating or carving contests
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Costume parades
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Spooky movie nights or themed photo booths
These traditions keep the holiday enjoyable, and allergy-safe.
Supporting Central Valley Families Year-Round
At Baz Allergy, Asthma & Sinus Center, we know that allergies don’t take holidays off. Whether you’re managing food allergies, asthma, or seasonal triggers common in the Central Valley, our team provides comprehensive testing, personalized care, and education to help you breathe easier.
With convenient locations across Fresno, Clovis, Visalia, Madera, Merced, Hanford, and Bakersfield, we’re here to help you manage allergies safely and confidently,
every season of the year.
Learn more about local allergy treatment or schedule your visit today!
