Food Allergies & Special Diets
We're committed to creating dining experiences that everyone on campus can enjoy.
What are Food Allergies?
Food allergies are more common than you might think, affecting more than 3 million Canadians.
Food allergies are immune system reactions that occur shortly after consuming certain foods. These reactions happen when your immune system mistakenly identifies a particular food as harmful. When someone with a food allergy eats a food that they are allergic to, they can experience a range of symptoms, from mild rashes to severe reactions like difficulty breathing. While food allergies can vary greatly among individuals, the most common allergens in Canada include:
- Eggs
- Milk
- Mustard
- Peanuts
- Crustaceans and molluscs
- Fish
- Sesame
- Soy
- Sulphites
- Tree nuts
- Wheat and triticale3
How to Manage Food Allergies
Communicate Your Needs
When dining out or attending events, clearly communicate your allergies to those preparing or serving the food.
Read Food Labels
Check the ingredients list on packaged foods for food allergens. Food labels must declare priority food allergens, added sulphites, and sources of gluten.
Prepare For An Emergency
Know the symptoms of an allergic reaction and call 911 and seek medical attention immediately. Carry an EpiPen with you and ensure you know how to use it.
Resources
There are many resources available to help you stay safe and informed when managing your food allergies. Here are a few to get you started.