Living in Singapore with peanut & tree nut allergies : Eating Out

Posted by Vicky on | April 25, 2012 | 2 Comments

Living with peanut and tree nut allergies is difficult – no matter where in the world you are. Living in Singapore with peanut and or tree nut allergies brings up its own unique set of challenges.

As in all Asian food there is a high use of peanut and tree nut products. Singapore is a nation known for its love of food, and its geographical position has allowed it to incorporate food from the region into local dishes. Singapore is a tiny island with a huge population of foodies.

Many local dishes contain peanuts or tree nuts in some shape or form. From satay to curry to Singaporean to Chinese to Indonesian to Thai to Indian food, they all contain them. While eating many local dishes is not an option for those with tree nut and peanut allergies – this does not mean it is impossible to eat out with those food allergies here.

Top Tips for eating out with peanut and tree nut allergies

• If you have the time call the restaurant in advance and find out if it is suitable, and/or if they can safely cater for you.
• If you are unsure… walk out – as a back up McDonalds and Carl’s Junior here do not use any peanut or tree nut products in their oil. Always ask to see the nutritional information – the allergens are listed. Both these restaurants have this information on hand. * McDonald’s curry sauce contains peanuts.
• Western food and restaurants tend to be safer and more allergy aware.
• Hotel restaurants are often able to cater for those with food allergies.
• Show your medication if you feel you are not being taken seriously. Nothing like a prop for back up.
• Read the menus – if you see a high use of peanuts or tree nuts don’t eat there. There is little understanding of cross-contamination amongst local restaurants. Unless you are certain your food can be prepared safely and separately don’t eat there.
• As a general rule Hawker fare is out… unless you are recommended a particular stall.

Due to the common misconception that food allergies (especially peanut and tree nut allergies) do not exist amongst the local population, places serving food have not always felt the need to address the issue of customers with food allergies. This is changing, as food allergies around the globe are increasing so are people’s awareness of them. Organisations such as the Asthma and Allergy Association (AAA), sneezywheezy.com, and the actual people with these allergies are all helping to highlight this issue.

Our final tip is to keep reading sneezywheezy! We are constantly adding to our list of  “safe” restaurants in Singapore.

~ Vicky

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