Your Guide to a Stress-Free, Allergy Friendly Thanksgiving

Tips for hosting or attending Thanksgiving safely—from cross-contact to dessert tables that include every guest.

Quick Takeaways

• Ask about allergies early and communicate clearly.
• Label dishes and prevent cross-contact in the kitchen.
• Keep dessert inclusive with safe treats like Free2b Sun Cups.
• Focus on gratitude, games, and togetherness beyond the food.

Thanksgiving brings people together—from favorite recipes to heartfelt traditions. And for food allergy families, it’s entirely possible to enjoy a safe, inclusive celebration with just a little extra planning.

Whether you're hosting or attending, thoughtful communication and a few simple swaps can help every guest feel welcome and included at the table.

Here’s how to make it joyful (and safe!) for everyone.

1. Start with the Guest List—and the Allergy List

If you’re hosting, ask early about guests’ allergies, including how severe they are and whether there are specific safety measures (like avoiding shared serving utensils or packaged goods with “may contain” warnings).

If you’re the one attending, don’t wait—reach out to the host with a clear list of allergens and any food safety precautions your family follows. Most hosts are happy to accommodate when they have the information in advance.

Tip: Offer to bring a dish or two that’s 100% safe for your child. That way you’ll always have something they can enjoy.

2. Plan an Allergy Friendly Menu (or Menu Additions)

A full allergy friendly menu might not be realistic for every gathering—but it’s simple to make sure everyone has a few safe options.

Here are some easy ways to make it happen:

·       Serve toppings (like gravy, stuffing, nuts, and sauces) on the side

·       Use labels or cards to indicate allergens

·       Choose whole foods where possible—roasted veggies, plain turkey, simple mashed potatoes

·       Skip family-style if cross-contact is a concern, and offer plated portions instead

3. Watch for Cross-Contact in the Kitchen

Cross-contact (not to be confused with cross-contamination) happens when allergens are transferred from one food to another through surfaces, utensils, or even hands. It’s a major concern for food allergy families—but one that’s manageable with good habits.

Set your kitchen up for success by:

·       Washing hands and surfaces before prep

·       Using clean, dedicated utensils and pans

·       Making allergy-safe dishes first, then storing them safely

·       Serving allergy friendly items in separate dishes with dedicated utensils

4. Make the Dessert Table Inclusive

Dessert is often the trickiest part of any food-centered holiday—but it’s also one of the most joyful. With just a bit of planning, you can make the sweet stuff safe and stress-free.

Ideas for allergy friendly desserts:

·       Fresh fruit skewers with safe chocolate drizzle

·       Pumpkin pie made with allergy friendly crusts and non-dairy milks

·       Free2b Sunflower Butter Sun Cups®, Mint Minis, or Sea Salt Caramel Minis—perfect for the dessert table or individual treat bags!

o   Shop Sun Cups®

o   Shop Mini Cups

5. Focus on the Fun Beyond the Food

Thanksgiving isn’t just about what’s on the plate—it’s about connection, traditions, and feeling included. Build in activities that every guest can enjoy, no food required.

Ideas:

·       Gratitude crafts or writing exercises

·       Family games or trivia

·       A walk together after dinner

·       Allergy friendly hot cocoa around the fire

Final Thoughts

With clear communication, a bit of preparation, and an open heart, Thanksgiving can be a truly inclusive celebration. By centering safety and kindness, we can create holiday memories every guest can enjoy—no matter what allergies they carry.

And when it comes to allergy friendly treats you can trust? Free2b’s sweet treats have you covered with options made in dedicated allergy friendly facilities, free from the Top 9 allergens, plus corn, mustard, and sulfites.

FAQ: Thanksgiving with Food Allergies

Q: How do you prevent cross-contact at a big gathering?
 A: Prep allergy friendly dishes first with clean utensils and surfaces. Keep them in separate containers and label them clearly. Avoid shared serving utensils.

Q: What’s the best way to talk to a host about food allergies?
 A: Reach out early, be specific about the allergens, and offer to bring a safe dish or treat. A kind, proactive tone makes all the difference.

Q: Are Free2b products safe for multiple food allergies?
 A: Yes! All Free2b treats are made in a dedicated allergy friendly facility free from the Top 9 allergens, plus corn, mustard, and sulfites. Our Crunchsters® snacks are also made in a dedicated allergy friendly facility free from the Top 9 allergens (plus mustard and sulfites), but they do contain corn—so be sure to check labels if corn is a concern.

Q: What’s a safe dessert idea for kids with food allergies?
 A: Try Free2b Mini Cups, fruit with allergy friendly chocolate drizzle, or pumpkin pie with a safe crust and non-dairy milk. Bonus points for single-serve portions!