6 Countries to be mindful of when travelling with a peanut allergy
Posted: 15th August 2024 | Posted by Costa
6 Countries to be mindful of when travelling with a peanut allergy
Travelling the world can be exciting, but for those who suspect peanut allergies, it can also bring about a heightened sense of caution. Different countries have varying levels of awareness and accommodation for peanut allergies, and it’s crucial to know which destinations require extra vigilance. If you suspect you have a peanut allergy, understanding the risks in certain countries can help you plan a safer and more enjoyable trip.
Thailand
Thailand is known for its delicious and diverse cuisine, but peanuts are a staple ingredient in many dishes, including the famous Pad Thai (ผัดไทย) and numerous street foods. Cross-contamination in food preparation is common, making it challenging to avoid peanuts entirely.
- Common dishes with peanuts:
- Pad Thai (ผัดไทย)
- Satay (สะเต๊ะ)
- Translation for “no peanuts”: ไม่มีถั่วลิสง (mai mii thua lisong)
China
Chinese cuisine often includes peanuts and peanut oil, particularly in dishes like Kung Pao Chicken (宫保鸡丁) and various stir-fries. Language barriers can also pose a challenge when communicating allergy needs.
- Common dishes with peanuts:
- Kung Pao Chicken (宫保鸡丁)
- Noodles (花生面)
- Translation for “no peanuts”: 不要花生 (bú yào huā shēng)
India
Indian food frequently uses peanuts and groundnut oil, especially in snacks and street food. Given the prevalence of peanuts in many regional dishes, it’s essential to exercise caution and communicate your allergy clearly.
- Common dishes with peanuts:
- Bhel Puri (भेल पुरी)
- Chutney (शेंगदाणा चटणी)
- Translation for “no peanuts: मूंगफली नहीं (moongphali nahin)
Indonesia
Indonesian cuisine, particularly in Bali and Java, uses peanuts in a variety of dishes like Satay (Sate) and Gado-Gado. Even if peanuts aren’t listed as an ingredient, cross-contamination can occur in shared cooking spaces.
- Common dishes with peanuts:
- Satay (Sate)
- Gado-Gado
- Translation for “no peanuts”: Tanpa kacang tanah
Nigeria
In Nigeria, peanuts (or groundnuts) are a common ingredient in many traditional dishes, such as Groundnut Soup. Street vendors and local restaurants may not always be aware of the severity of peanut allergies, so it’s crucial to be vigilant.
- Common dishes with peanuts:
- Groundnut Soup
- Kilishi (spiced dried meat with peanuts)
- Translation for “no peanuts”: Ba tare da gyada (Hausa)
Mexico
While Mexican cuisine is known for its rich flavours and variety, peanuts can be found in dishes like Mole Sauce and some street foods. Ensuring that food is peanut-free can be challenging, particularly in local markets.
- Common dishes with peanuts:
- Mole Sauce
- Cacahuates (peanuts in various snacks)
- Translation for “no peanuts”: Sin cacahuates
Tips for safe travel with a peanut allergy
If you’re not sure whether you have a peanut allergy, the best thing to do is to first take an allergy test to be sure. If you discover you do have a peanut allergy, you’re not alone. Approximately 1-2% of the global population is estimated to have a peanut allergy, affecting millions of people worldwide.
A peanut allergy shouldn’t mean you can’t travel. Here are our safe travel tips:
- Research before you go: Research the typical ingredients used in your destination’s cuisine and identify potential risks.
- Learn key phrases: In countries where English is not widely spoken, learn key phrases to communicate your peanut allergy. We’ve given you a head start above.
- Carry allergy cards: Use allergy translation cards to explain your condition to restaurant staff and food vendors.
- Pack safe snacks: Bring a supply of safe, non-perishable snacks in case you have trouble finding suitable food options.
- Stay in accommodations with kitchens: To avoid cross-contamination, consider staying in places where you can prepare your own meals. This isn’t always ideal for holidays, but for longer-term travel, it can bring you peace of mind.
Take control of your peanut allergy
If you suspect you have a peanut allergy, it’s crucial to confirm it before travelling. Knowing your allergy status can help you take necessary precautions and avoid severe reactions. Our peanut allergy testing kit offers a simple, accurate, and convenient way to determine if peanuts are affecting your health.
Understanding peanut allergies can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Travel plans don’t need to be grounded to keep you safe. Why not register as a new patient or take one of our home allergy tests? Begin your path to a peanut-free life today.