08/06/2026
As back to school season starts, this is great information to familiarize yourself with! It is likely a student in every classroom will have a food allergy, as 1 in every 13 children battle one.
College brings new freedom, new routines—and for students with food allergies, a new level of responsibility. Before move-in day, take time to create a plan for staying safe on campus:
🔴 Connect with the college before arriving. Contact Disability or Accessibility Services, campus health services, housing and dining services to discuss accommodations and emergency procedures.
🔴 Meet with dining staff. Ask how allergens are identified, how meals are prepared and what steps are taken to reduce cross-contact. Learn which dining locations and menu options are safest for you.
🔴 Talk openly with your roommate. Explain your allergies, what foods need to stay out of shared spaces, how to recognize a reaction and where you keep your epinephrine.
🔴 Carry two doses of epinephrine at all times. Do not leave them in your dorm room, car or backpack across campus. Check expiration dates and request refills before leaving home.
🔴 Share your emergency plan. Trusted friends, roommates, teammates and resident assistants should know where your medication is, how to use it and that epinephrine should be administered immediately when anaphylaxis is suspected.
🔴 Know how to get help. Save campus security and emergency numbers in your phone, identify the nearest hospital and learn where stock epinephrine may be available on campus.
🔴 Advocate for yourself—every time. Ask questions before eating, read labels carefully and never feel pressured to take a chance just because speaking up feels inconvenient.
College should be filled with new experiences—not unnecessary risks. Preparation, communication and immediate access to epinephrine can help students enjoy this next chapter with greater confidence and independence. ❤️👟
