Food bans are not recommended by Te Kete Ipurangi (TKI) and Allergy NZ.
Instead, TKI recommends four key strategies:
Recognise and respond to allergic reactions – Have an allergy action plan. Make sure the school has comprehensive information about your allergy, including what you are allergic to, the appropriate first aid response and medications, and emergency contact details (including your doctor’s contact details).
Develop and implement health and safety policies and procedures – educate staff about allergies, anaphylaxis and how to identify them. Train staff for an emergency response (including using EpiPens). Make sure school policies are well communicated.
Create inclusive systems – Make sure you and you whānau are involved when allergy policies are being reviewed. Teach classmates about allergies and how to support you.
Create inclusive learning environment – practical strategies like making sure food and drink bottles are clearly labelled, teachers being aware of areas with high pollen count and grasses when planning outdoor activities.
Banning food should only happen if it has been recommended by a medical specialist.
For more information, go to www.inclusive.tki.org.nz and search “allergies and learning”