Food Allergies

Seek professional advice on how your allergy may affect your study abroad/away goals and to best prepare to travel.

Find out what ingredients are used, how food is prepared in your host destination’s cuisine to determine if a place is good for you and your health, and research alternative food options.

You should be able to use your language skills to ask which ingredients are used in dishes, communicate what your allergies are, what an allergic reaction involves, and ask to be taken to a hospital in case of an emergency.

Make an allergy translation notecard:  If you are traveling to a country where you do not speak the language, make a note to translate all necessary information.

Inform your program of your allergy and ensure they relay the message to all pertinent individuals, such as your homestay family, apartment roommates, onsite faculty, etc. Clearly articulate the severity of your allergy to your program provider; if it could impact your entire study abroad group, it’s crucial they are informed promptly to alert others. Open communication from the outset ensures everyone involved is aware and can take necessary precautions.

Be prepared to show your insurance card upon arrival.  Some countries also require an up front fee in order to be seen by a physician.

Prepare for instances during your study abroad where classmates may opt for street food, while you struggle to find suitable options for your diet. Pack non-perishable snacks in your bag to ensure you have alternatives available.