Don’t Let Chocolate Ruin Your Valentine’s Day!

Gifting chocolate is one of the most popular ways to express affection. But this edible declaration of love can ruin your Valentine's Day if you have food allergies.

While an allergy to chocolate itself is possible, it's pretty rare. So, if you've experienced symptoms of an allergic reaction after eating chocolate, it’s likely that another ingredient in the chocolate is causing your symptoms (unless testing shows otherwise).

Beware of the following allergens that chocolates can contain:

👉 MILK: Almost all chocolate contains at least some milk

👉 PEANUTS & TREE NUTS: Some chocolates are filled with peanut butter or with whole nuts; even if the chocolate does not include any nuts, there is always a risk of cross-contact during manufacturing

👉 WHEAT & GLUTEN: Filled chocolates often use flour or wheat starch as a binder; crisped rice can be problematic because it often includes barley malt

👉 SOY: Chocolate usually includes soy lecithin that is used as an emulsifier

👉 CORN: High-fructose corn syrup is often found in chocolates. Be especially alert for the presence of corn in white chocolate

👉 BERRIES: Be careful of chocolate assortments that may have a berry compote in the middle

ALWAYS double-check labels on anything you are gifted, even products you’ve consumed safely before. Remember, manufacturing practices can change without warning.

And don't forget your epinephrine auto-injectors — ya know, just in case.

Source: https://www.verywellhealth.com/chocolate-allergy-does-it-exist-1323991