Nursery World - Quick reactions

With nut allergies increasing among children, early years practitioners need to take precautions. Suzannah Olivier offers advice in the latest of our series on special diets It is estimated that one in 100 children have nut allergies, which creates catering and logistical problems for all nurseries.

It is estimated that one in 100 children have nut allergies, which creates catering and logistical problems for all nurseries.

The most widespread nut allergy is to peanuts. The peanut is actually a member of the bean family - the way the peanuts line up in the pod gives the game away.

Tree nuts such as pecans, walnuts, hazelnuts and seeds, particularly sesame seeds, also cause reactions. Allergic reactions can happen after consuming many other foods, including milk, eggs, soya, fish and shellfish. Reactions can also be caused by bee or wasp stings, certain drugs such as penicillin and latex in rubber gloves.

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