Traveling Abroad with Food Allergies

Source: https://grs-blog.global.utexas.edu/2025/05/14/traveling-abroad-with-food-allergies/ Parent: https://grs-blog.global.utexas.edu/

International travel affords endless opportunities to explore diverse and exciting new cuisines, but for travelers with food allergies, it can raise the risk of dangerous allergic reactions. If you have any food allergies, we recommend that you take the following steps to ensure your safety and your ability to communicate critical information:

• Always carry medication (including epinephrine auto-injectors) with you in the original prescription container, including on the plane. (Do not pack this in your checked luggage!)
• Travel with non-perishable food that you know to be safe.
• Learn how to say you are allergic to specific foods in the local language. We recommend carrying a card (or saving information on your phone) with you that identifies your allergies in the local language to prevent dangerous miscommunications. (One example, courtesy of foodallergy.org: chef cards.)
• Never make assumptions about potential cross-contamination or product ingredients. (Similar products produced abroad may use different ingredients or may be prepared in facilities where cross-contamination is possible.) Always read ingredients on food products and menus and ask before purchasing food from restaurants or street vendors if allergen information is not included on the menu.
• Ensure that your companions are aware of your food allergy so they can act quickly in the event of an emergency.
• If you are traveling abroad for UT Austin educational or business purposes, consider contacting On Call International for additional guidance specific to your destination, including access to critical medication and local emergency facilities. On Call International can also assist you in obtaining refill prescriptions if necessary.