Do Clean Hands Lead to Fewer Food Allergy Reactions

Hand hygiene is extremely important, especially when dealing with food allergies. If you want to prevent allergic reactions and reduce the risk of cross-contact and exposure to allergens, proper hand washing is crucial.

Here are 3 ways which good hand hygiene can contribute to fewer allergic reactions:

1️⃣ Preventing Cross-Contact

When you wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water, it helps remove allergens that may be present on the skin of your hands. Hand sanitizer is not a substitute for hand washing. Sanitizers do not remove food proteins. Only soap and water can ensure clean, allergen-free hands.

2️⃣ Food Preparation Safety

Proper hand hygiene in the kitchen can avoid cross-contact and help reduce allergic reactions.

3️⃣ Public Spaces & Shared Surfaces

When using public and shared spaces, it is very easy to come into contact with allergens inadvertently left on surfaces, such as tables, door handles, or utensils. To prevent the risk of transferring allergens from these surfaces to the hands and, subsequently, to the mouth, eyes, or other mucous membranes, regular hand washing is a must.

Print out this poster from FARE and help remind your family and friends of the importance of proper hand washing: https://www.foodallergy.org/resources/handwashing-poster