Eating Out with a Child Who Has Egg Allergy: Key Points

Communicating when you order

• State clearly that the child has an egg allergy, including egg white, egg yolk, egg powder and sauces that contain egg
• Ask specifically about: egg fried rice, egg drop soup, steamed egg, salad dressing, batter on fried foods, and some noodles and baked goods
• Check whether pans, fryers and work surfaces are shared with foods that contain egg
• Avoid buffet counters to reduce the risk of cross-contact and taking the wrong food

Safer choices

Choose dishes made in simple ways, and avoid complicated sauces and mixed seasonings. Call the restaurant ahead to explain the situation, or avoid busy times. Make sure companions know about the child's allergy and where the emergency plan is kept. Bring a suitable snack so the child does not go hungry if eating there is not possible.

If symptoms appear

For itching around the mouth or a mild rash, stop eating first, rinse the mouth with water and watch closely. If there is tightness in the throat, difficulty breathing, hives all over the body, repeated vomiting or the child seems less alert, call 120 (the emergency number in China) straight away and follow the emergency plan made by your doctor. Symptoms can also appear delayed, within hours after the meal, so it helps to record what was eaten and when.

This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. Please follow your doctor's instructions.