Navigating Disney with food Allergies!

Having a food allergy can be scary! Navigating the allergy during vacation, can be extra scary. I have recently developed a sensitivity to any foods that contain dairy. Do you have any idea how many foods contain dairy? It's in so many foods that you wouldn't expect. This has been a huge adjustment for me. No more Mickey ice creams for this girl. So, I know first-hand how frustrating and stressful it is. I have been to several different theme parks and have to say, that the only theme park that I feel absolutely comfortable eating at, is in a Disney theme park.

Disney goes above and beyond in the allergy department. Disney has made it so easy for you to figure out what is safe for you to eat depending on your allergy. The My Disney Experience app will be your friend when looking up food and restaurants that can accommodate your needs. And, it is such an easy way for you to order your food without having to explain it to a waiter or cashier.

Not all restaurants have allergy friendly menus. If they do, you will see an allergy friendly tab that will list all the food items by what allergy you are looking for. Allergy menus are at the bottom of the app so scroll all the way down and find the area you need. Once you find an item that works for your dietary needs, proceed with your order. The best part about this, is that you can order your food with your family. Your food will be separate from your families and clearly marked with an allergy marker. You can order the same thing as someone else in your group, and don't have to be worried about which one has been made just for you.

If you have multiple allergies or would feel more comfortable talking to someone before ordering, they are great at that too. Just ask a Cast member at the food location you are wanting to eat at, they have always been very knowledgeable with any questions I have had. If they can't answer the questions you have, they will go and grab a chef. The chefs really take the time and make sure you get exactly what you are needing. Each restaurant has a binder of all the food times with listed ingredients if you would like to see that as well. They go above and beyond to make every single person feel special. What else do you expect from Disney? If you are going to Mickey's not so scary Halloween party, they have a special allergy friendly candy exchange. When you arrive, notify a cast member of your allergy. They will give a teal treat bag. At each treat station you go to you will receive a teal token. You can exchange those tokens at 2 locations. One located in Liberty square or Main Street Chamber of Commerce. They have several different varieties of allergy friendly candies to choose from. Going to Oogie boogie bash in Disney California Adventure? They also have allergy friendly options at the treat stations. Just let a cast member know. Disney goes the extra mile to make sure nothing gets in the way of your family having a magical vacation. I may not be able to eat a Mickey Ice Cream, but Dole Whips are dairy free. Other restaurants and theme parks should learn from the attention to this detail offered by the amazing chefs and restaurant workers at Disney. Enjoy your next meal worry free!

- Devin

IG: @sendingpixiedust