Communication is the key to avoiding food allergens. Many allergic travelers are concerned that the message about severe food allergy doesn’t make it to the people who actually prepare the food, and often severely limit their food choices to ensure they don’t have an accidental exposure.
Translated food allergy cards provide a simple solution by describing allergies in the local language. The cards are easy to carry and can be handed to the kitchen staff by wait staff to ensure everyone is aware of the problem.
How do They Work?
Several online vendors offer allergy translation cards. Some allow you to print them yourself or store them electronically on your phone or tablet, while others mail them out. The cards are designed to be shown to restaurant staff so that they can prepare your food in a safe manner.
Note that not all companies address the issue of cross-contamination by cooking utensils, which is a problem if you are extremely sensitive. It’s no fun to endure an ambulance ride to the local ER while your face swells up and you wheeze, especially when you don’t speak to local language.
Why will Travellers Like These Cards?
Food allergy cards help travellers communicate allergies to restaurants so that they can decide whether or not a particular food or beverage is safe to eat or drink. These cards are easy to use. They’re available in a wide assortment of languages to help travelers everywhere.
The vendors listed below have personal experience with food allergies but none have medical training.
Food Allergy Research & Education Website
Created by a merger of two leading patient advocacy organizations. This website has educational materials and a popular downloadable emergency care plan. Detailed tips for travel are available for 11 countries.
Cost: free
Category: food and drink
Devices: website
Pros: comprehensive educational materials
Cons: travel advice limited to 11 countries, English only
Rating: ★★★★☆
Allergy in Translation Allergy Cards
Created by Allergy in Translation, the ‘Food Allergy Cards’ cards are available for 200 types of food allergies in up to 43 languages. Multiple allergens can be included on single card. User prints out cards for wallet.
Cost: $6 USD per card
Category: food and drink
Devices: paper print-at-home card or screen shot for phone
Pros: Simple, fast
Cons: does not address cross-contamination of food
Rating: ★★★☆☆
Select Wisely Allergy Cards
Created by Select Wisely, the ‘Food Allergy Cards’ cards are available for 10 types of food allergies in up to 55 languages. Can be emailed or shipped.
Cost: $15 USD per card
Category: food and drink
Devices: plastic card
Pros: Simple includes picture of food, related allergy cards available
Cons: Need to order well in advance travel, expensive
Rating: ★★★☆☆
Dietary Card Allergy Cards
Created by Dietary Card the ‘Food Allergy Cards’ cards are available for 100 types of food allergies in 17 languages. Shipped to your home.
Cost: £10-25 + shipping per card
Category: food and drink
Devices: plastic card
Pros: Simple, up to 4 allergens per card
Cons: Need to order well in advance travel, expensive
Rating: ★★★☆☆
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