Halloween food

　　Toronto - Halloween is a time for fun and candy for most children but for some that candy can be a life or death risk. Children with severe food allergies can go into anaphylatic shock if they consume the wrong thing.
In Canada an estimated 1.3 people live with food allergies, one of the leading causes of anaphylactic reactions. There is only one way to avoid a life-threatening reaction-total avoidance of the allergens. For younger children this rests on the parents shoulders, older youth have to know that their very life depends on being aware of what they eat at all times.

CBC Television's Dragons' Den star Bruce Croxon and his wife Debra know the risks personally. The couple have two young children that have multiple food allergies.
"Anaphylaxis Canada has been a valuable resource for our family," said Mr. Croxon. "Serious food allergies present a number of challenges but by committing to some simple safety strategies and always planning ahead, they are manageable."
The family will be going to a special party in Toronto on October 30 at Harbourfront Community Centre. Anaphylaxic Canada will be hosting a Halloween Party and fundraising Dance-A-Thon for families that due with life threatening food allergies on October 30. The registration deadline is tomorrow evening at 5:00.
If you are a parent that fears trick or treating for your children with food allergies there are some easy ways to make sure your kids have fun and remain safe. One way is to have a swag bag for the kiddies at home. When your little ghoul returns from collecting their treats you swap bags with them, giving them a safe bag of treats for their stash. If you think your child will be upset at handing over their bag you can take them with you when you shop for their special swag bag to make sure they are excited about the swap. Always be on hand with the younger set when they are trick or treating.
Older children pose a bigger problem on Halloween. Kids want to be just like everyone else and are tempted to try their treats before they get home. One solution is to host a party for them and their friends or take the crew to an event where food isn't the focal point.