Leading Food Allergy Organizations Join in Support of the Teal Pumpkin Project to Create a Happier, Safer Halloween For All

Movement Focusing on Inclusion, Awareness Continues to Grow

McLEAN, Va. (Oct. 2, 2018) – This Halloween across America, teal pumpkins will signal safe treats for trick-or-treaters with food allergies as part of the Teal Pumpkin Project, an awareness initiative jointly supported this year by Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE), Allergy & Asthma Network, American Partnership for Eosinophilic Disorders, Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, CURED Foundation, End Allergies Together, Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Connection Team, Food Allergy Fund, International FPIES Association, the FPIES Foundation and Red Sneakers for Oakley.

Over the past four years, households from every state have participated in the Teal Pumpkin Project, which encourages people to place a teal pumpkin in front of their home to show they have non-food treats available for children with food allergies and medically-necessary dietary restrictions.

“The number of children with food allergies as well as the number of anaphylactic reactions to food have risen dramatically over the last 20 years, and the prevalence of other diseases that cause adverse reactions to food continues to grow, as well,” said FARE CEO Lisa Gable. “Participating in the Teal Pumpkin Project has a collective impact, bringing people together to provide a more inclusive trick-or-treating experience for all. We are excited this year to join forces with other food allergy organizations who share our commitment to keeping children with food allergies safe and included and hope to see a teal pumpkin on every block in America.”

Virtually any food can cause a reaction.Many popular Halloween candies contain nuts, milk, egg, soy or wheat, which are among the most common allergens in children and adults. Additionally, many miniature candy items do not have labels, so it is difficult for parents to determine whether these items are safe for their child with food allergies.

Taking part in the Teal Pumpkin Project is simple, and can be a fun family activity. Paint a pumpkin teal, or buy one at any number of national retailers, and place it on front of your home to show you have non-food treats available. Participants in this movement offer non-food treats, such as glow sticks or small toys, as an alternative to candy.

The Teal Pumpkin Project was inspired by a local awareness activity run by the Food Allergy Community of East Tennessee.

For more information, and to add a participating home to Teal Pumpkin Project map, visit www.tealpumpkinproject.org.

FARE thanks CVS Pharmacy and Michaels for their 2018 sponsorship.