Allergies in the work place

Lets discuss allergies and how important the topic truly is. Lets paint a picture. The house is racing with excitement, people are hungry and the kitchen has never smelled better. You have your white board up and it has girls names on it and listed next to each name is the allergies associated with each girl who attends meals. You put Pulled Chicken on the menu and last night you forgot to thaw the meat, so on your way into work this morning you stopped at the local store and picked up a frozen entrée of Pulled Chicken because you thought it would help you with time as you were already running late. Andrea who is allergic to hydrogenated oil has no idea this is one of the ingredients that was used in processing the frozen dinner you bought. Because you were in a hurry and to preoccupied to look at the ingredients, you let her eat it and now she is having an anaphylactic attack and at risk of dying. See what forgetting to thaw out the chicken did? Nothing “just happens”. Things happen because of action or a lack of.

Don’t trash talk people because they have allergies and it inconveniences you. If you’re one of these people who complain about the condition of others, then you should find another place to breathe but please, don’t prepare peoples food. You don’t have that right. I feel so sad for people who cannot enjoy some things because their bodies react poorly to the food components. Could you imagine being allergic to chocolate? Well unfortunately some people are and I’m sure they wish they weren’t. How about this? Instead of being irresponsible about it, step up to the plate and be that persons hero and make them something they “can eat” and maybe you will make a friend. At the same time you will learn how to be creative with different foods that make people happy when they eat them.

I know a bright young lady who attends the sorority where I have the pleasure to work and she is allergic to eggs. One day she asked, Chef, can you make me an eggless omelet? Yes I can! I made it with Tofu and vegetables and melted cheddar cheese on top. She was so excited and she loved eating it. Remember this! You are the person people trust with their well being, not just someone who shows up and serves food to people. Get your mind right!