Introducing New Tree Nut and Peanut Safety Practices

According to the CDC, is estimated that nearly six million people live with tree nut and peanut allergies in America. It is also reported that the prevalence of food allergies in Americans has just about tripled in the last twenty years.  Even a small amount of tree nuts or peanuts—which are among the most common foods to which children are allergic—can trigger a deadly allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis (an-ə-fə-LAK-sis).

Click the image above, or here, to view the full Infographic from FARE.

To best protect the children we serve,  Franciscan Children’s is taking steps to promote tree nut and peanut safety by changing our policies, an initiative that aims to educate patients, staff, and guests alike on the dangers that lie in tree nut and peanut consumption on hospital grounds.

Our new policy prohibits any products containing tree nuts or peanuts from being brought on our campus.  To support this effort, Food Services will no longer sell or serve products containing tree nuts or peanuts.  Dedicated waste receptacles will be available near entrances so visitors can properly dispose of items containing tree nut or peanuts.

As our policies and practices are changing, we want the families we serve to feel educated on the subject.  We recommend the following resources as valuable references:

• More on Anaphylaxis from Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE)
• Foods containing tree nuts and peanuts
• Handwashing is important after handling foods containing tree nuts and peanuts

So while you’re munching that Snickers bar on the sidewalk or switching from almond milk to coconut milk (which is still permissible on campus under the new policy), you can smile and know that your efforts to maintain a safe and inclusive environment for all patients may be saving a life!