At Perry Johnson Registrars Food Safety, Inc. (PJRFSI), we view food safety as a lifelong mission, which includes special occasions like Halloween. For families navigating food allergies, this spooky holiday can raise extra concerns. With some thoughtful preparation and updated 2025 practices, you can ensure trick-or-treating remains joyful and inclusive.
1. Stock up on allergy-safe treats and non-food options
Having a stash of treats you know are safe gives your child the freedom to swap out anything questionable. Consider safe candies (with trusted labels), and even better—non-food treats such as stickers, glow sticks, or small toys. Recent 2025 guidance emphasizes non-food treats as a proactive route for inclusion. Children’s Wisconsin
2. Enforce a “no eating while trick-or-treating” rule
Eating on the go often means wrappers don’t get read, ingredients aren’t checked, and cross-contact risks rise. Hold off until you return home, then inspect each item carefully. Smaller “fun-size” or mini candies may use different ingredients from full size, a fact newly emphasized in 2025. https://www.whsv.com
3. Watch out for unlabeled or partial-label treats
Candies without full ingredient panels (especially mini sizes) pose unknown risks. In 2025, awareness among allergists and allergy-safe advocates is higher than ever on this point. New York Family
4. Carry your epinephrine auto-injector (and other essential allergy gear)
For children with known severe allergies, don’t leave home without the prescribed epinephrine. Many experts in 2025 reiterate this as non-negotiable.
5. Shift the focus from candy to memory-making fun
Candy is fun but it’s not the only thing that makes Halloween magical. Consider traditions like:
- A “Good Witch” or “Candy Fairy” who swaps unsafe candy for safe surprises.
- A Halloween party at home with allergy-safe treats, games, and costumes.
- Use of the Teal Pumpkin Project (see below) to signal inclusive, allergy-friendly homes.
In 2025, the Teal Pumpkin Project has grown significantly, with more home- and neighborhood-level participation than ever. FoodAllergy.org
6. If traditional trick-or-treating feels too risky, throw a party instead
This remains a great alternative: safe snacks, games, costumes, prizes – not just candy! Use the opportunity to teach about food allergies in a fun way and make everyone feel included.
7. Use 2025’s digital and social tools
- Consider mapping safe houses on the Teal Pumpkin Project map so you know which homes offer non-food treats.
- Share on social media with #TealPumpkin or #FoodAllergySafeHalloween to promote awareness.
- Download printable posters and yard signs (many free in 2025) to share your participation. Allergic Living
At PJRFSI, we know that food safety is not just about manufacturing lines and certification, it is about everyday life, including Halloween! With the right preparation, your friends and family with food allergies can fully join the fun without fear. From stocking safe options, enforcing rules, to leveraging non-food treats and the Teal Pumpkin initiative, you’re setting them up for a safe and spooky celebration.
