Resources about Allergy-Friendly, Celiac

Traveling with a child who has allergies can feel overwhelming, but with careful planning, your family can enjoy safe, memorable adventures together. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or an overseas trip, here are some parent-tested tips to help you travel with confidence.

1. Do Your Homework Before You Go

Research your destination ahead of time. Look into how allergies are handled in that country, and identify nearby hospitals or clinics just in case. Check if allergy-friendly restaurants or grocery stores are available — especially important if your child is a picky eater or has multiple dietary needs.

2. Pack the Allergy Must-Haves

Make a checklist and double-check it. Always bring your child’s epinephrine auto-injectors, antihistamines, and any prescribed medications. Keep them in your carry-on or diaper bag — never in checked luggage. Bring safe snacks and meal options too, especially for flights or unfamiliar areas.

3. Use Allergy Translation Cards

If you’re traveling somewhere with a different language, allergy translation cards are a must. These cards explain your child’s peanut allergy in the local language, helping restaurant staff understand the seriousness of the condition. It’s a small tool that offers huge peace of mind.

4. Notify Airlines, Hotels & Tours in Advance

Let airlines know about your child’s allergies when booking tickets. Some may offer peanut-free flights or inflight allergy-free menu or allow early boarding to wipe down seating areas. Also inform hotels and tour operators — many are happy to accommodate families with food allergies if they know ahead of time.

5. Be Smart When Dining Out

Ask questions about food preparation, ingredients, and the risk of cross-contamination. Stick to simple meals when possible, and consider using allergy-friendly apps to find safe places to eat. When in doubt, bring your own food — safety first.

6. Get the Right Travel Insurance

Choose a family travel insurance plan that covers allergy-related emergencies. It’s an extra layer of protection that can make a big difference in a crisis.

You’ve Got This

Traveling with a peanut allergy takes extra effort, but it’s absolutely doable. With the right planning, you can focus on what really matters — making joyful, worry-free memories with your child.

Navigating food labels in Asia can be tricky if you’re living with celiac disease. Gluten often hides under unfamiliar names, and labeling standards vary across countries. Whether you're traveling or relocating, knowing what to look for can make your experience safer and less stressful. Here are five key ingredient labels to watch out for in Asian products:

1. Wheat (小麦 / 麦 / Gandum / Tepung Gandum)
Wheat is a common ingredient in many Asian packaged foods, sauces, and snacks — and it’s not always obvious. Look for terms like “小麦” (China/Japan), “麦” (barley or wheat in Japan), “gandum” (Malay/Indonesian for wheat), and “tepung gandum” (wheat flour). In Japan and China, wheat is often used in soy sauce, noodles, and processed meats.

2. Soy Sauce (酱油 / 醤油 / Kicap)
Soy sauce is typically brewed with wheat, making it unsafe for people with celiac disease. In countries like China, Japan, Korea, and Malaysia, soy sauce is used extensively in cooking and marinades. Look for certified gluten-free tamari or check the label for “gluten-free” (无麸质 / グルテンフリー / bebas gluten).

3. Barley (大麦 / オオムギ / Jelai)
Barley is another gluten-containing grain that often shows up in beverages, malt-based snacks, and seasonings. In Asia, it may appear as “大麦” (Chinese/Japanese), “オオムギ” (Japanese hiragana), or “jelai” in Malay. Barley is sometimes hidden in tea blends or energy drinks, so read carefully.

4. Modified Starch / Starch (淀粉 / Modified Starch / Kanji Tepung)
“Modified starch” or simply “starch” can be gluten-free — but not always. In some Asian countries, these are made from wheat and not always declared clearly. If the source isn't listed and there's no gluten-free label, it’s best to avoid it or contact the manufacturer directly.

5. Seasoning Powder / Flavor Enhancers (调味料 / 味の素 / Perisa Tambahan)
Instant noodles, snack seasonings, and soup bases often contain wheat-based enhancers. Labels like “调味料” (seasoning), “味の素” (common in Japan), or “perisa tambahan” (flavor additive in Malay) may include gluten unless specifically marked gluten-free.

Stay Label-Savvy, Stay Safe

Understanding ingredient labels in Asia is crucial if you have celiac disease. When in doubt, stick to naturally gluten-free foods and shop at stores with trusted allergy-aware products. Knowledge is your best defense when eating abroad.