Question
We will be hosting a diner for our daughter’s crew team (50 woman), the night before competition. I would like some advice about what we need to do to cater to a peanut allergy. One woman in the crew is allergic to peanuts and we want to avoid anything that can create an issue for her health. The dinner will consist of: Buffet-style dinner, dessert and drinks (non-alcoholic).
Can you provide some guidance about what we need to look out for in the menu?
Answer
Thank you for your email.
You could serve maize pasta with parmassaine cheese (made from chestnuts). This delivers light carbohydrates from the maize and the nuts will deliver more calories.
The key is to serve some useful protein as well so any dessert could be made with soya products. Substitute dairy with soya and you are sure to serve a healthy dessert that is filling and nutritious. The density of soya foods can be heavy but as it will be used in a dessert dish hopefully the portion will be minor. Let’s say you want to serve soya based yoghurt for dessert and with a chocolate flavour (use carob). Carob is a low GI food (key for sustained slow release energy) and about 8% protein. It is also is lower in fat than chocolate.
As for non alcoholic drinks, well have any health based fruit juices without added sugar or distilled water. The great thing about drinks is that we can always be innovative and prepare a home blend with fruits to serve something unique.
Please note that the information provided is for educational purposes only and is not meant to diagnose or treat medical conditions. Consult with your medical physician regarding appropriateness of using supplements in your healing process.
