Six Questions to Ask When Dining Out

These six questions could save your life when dining out. For those with food allergies, dining out can be a daunting task. Before choosing a restaurant, pick a cuisine that suits your special diet. Steer clear of Italian restaurants if you’re sensitive to gluten and dairy. Chinese cuisine is dangerous for those at risk of anaphylaxis due to peanut, nut, sesame or shellfish allergies. Peanuts and tree nuts are commonly used in Thai cooking too. Call ahead and ask to speak with the chef or manager of the restaurant.

To enjoy a safe meal, ask the following 6 questions from the manager or chef:

1️⃣ ARE YOU WILLING TO ACCOMMODATE MY SPECIAL DIET? If the answer is 'no' strikeout that restaurant from your list of must-visits.

2️⃣ DO YOU HAVE A FOOD ALLERGY POLICY AND TRAINING IN PLACE? It's essential that only trained employees handle your dietary request.

3️⃣ DO YOU PREPARE FOODS FOR CUSTOMERS WITH FOOD ALLERGIES OFTEN? If the restaurant is not used to serving customers with food allergies, think twice before dining there.

4️⃣ DO YOU HAVE A SEPARATE AREA TO PREPARE FOODS FOR SPECIAL DIETS? If separate cutting boards and utensils along with separate cooking equipment are not used, reconsider your restaurant choice.

5️⃣ MAY I REVIEW YOUR RECIPE BOOK OR INGREDIENT LIST? Ask to review the labels of any commercially prepared sauces that might be used in meal preparation.

6️⃣ HOW WILL THE MEAL BE PREPARED AND COOKED? Don’t eat at a restaurant unless you’re sure the chef or manager understands your request.

TIP: As a rule, it’s best to order simply seasoned meats and vegetables.

Always do your research and talk to the chef or manager before arriving at the restaurant.