Halloween is fast approaching, and many households are preparing for the arrival of many ghouls, princesses, and superheroes by purchasing some tasty treats. However, not all children are able to have the variety of treats that may be available. This notion is how the “teal pumpkin project” began. For those of you who do not know, the teal pumpkin project involves placing a teal pumpkin on your porch to let other families know that you have safe alternatives for children with allergies. Many families will project the usual chocolates and chips for those who can eat these treats, but will place alternative choices in a separate bowl (to avoid potential contamination [though the risk is quite low]).
By providing alternatives, it gives all children an equal chance to participate in Halloween. This project also shines light on the issues of food allergies and other conditions such as diabetes. Food allergies are vast and can include many different items including:
- Gluten
- Dairy
- Chocolate
- Egg
- Red Food Colouring
- Yellow Food Colouring
- Nuts
- Seeds
- Sugar
It can be challenging to find food items that avoid all of these particular foods, but below are provided some different options that you might choose to provide as an alternative if you are participating in the Teal Pumpkin Project.
- Stickers
- Pencils
- Erasers
- Temporary tattoos
- Rings
- Small Pads of Paper
- Coconut Water
Food items that you may be able to provide for some trick-or-treaters with food allergies (but possibly not all) may include some of the below ideas:
- Gum (avoid coloured gums to avoid the dyes and food colouring)
- Juice (depending on the brand or type it may contain food colouring, and most likely sugar)
- Lara Bars (these may contain nuts)
- Plain Chips (avoid flavoured chips as it may contain hidden forms of milk i.e. whey
- Gummy Candies (these are not always void of gluten, dairy, eggs, or food colouring)
In summary, the teal pumpkin project is ultimately a way to help children feel included despite their medical situation. I would encourage all households to attempt to be able to provide some form of alternative that may be safe for all youngsters!
Have you benefitted from reading this blog? Know someone that would benefit as well? Share, Like, Comment, or Tweet this article, and let me know what you think.
Some of the information provided above may not be appropriate for everyone, please consult with your doctor before trying any of the above. If you are interested in Naturopathic Medicine and wanting a different approach to your health care needs, contact Elisha Cook via the contact portion of this website.
