Halloween Should Be a Treat, not a Trick: Making Sure Halloween Goodies Are Safe to Eat

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                                                                            Source: goodhousekeeping.com

As we get closer and closer to Halloween, it’s a good reminder to keep these tips in mind to have a safe Halloween for the kiddos and ourselves! Here’s three tips to make sure Halloween stays all about the treats:

 

1.     Stay mindful of allergies

Especially for very young children who may be newly exposed to some potential allergy sources (Click here for a list of the top 8 allergens and symptoms of a reaction). 

Side note: check out the Teal Pumpkin Project! It’s a movement for houses to provide non-food items and toys in addition to candy so trick-or-treaters can have a safe and happy Halloween!

 

2.     Take an Opportunity to Practice Mindfulness 

I remember how exciting it was to have my big pillowcase full of candies and goodies after trick-or-treating in my grandma’s development. (I still get a little excited when I see some of my favorite candy around!) I’m sure some of us can also remember the stomachache that came after having a bit too much candy. Remind yourself and your kids to stop eating candy when feeling full or a little sick.


3.     Look for any Holes or Rips in Packaging

It hurts to even have to say this, but tampering with or being given unsafe treats is a threat to trick-or-treaters. The California State University Channel Islands Police details ways to identify tampering:

1.     An unusual appearance or discoloration

2.     Tiny pinholes or tears in wrappers

3.     Spoiled or unwrapped items

4.     Homemade items or baked goods should be discarded unless you personally know who gave them

5.     When in doubt, throw it out


Keep in mind the phone number for Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222


Let’s make sure we all have a good and safe time for ourselves and our trick-or-treaters! Happy Halloween!


SK

Photo: Garrity, A., & Worden, T. (2022). Basket of Trick or Treat Items on Orange. Good Housekeeping. Hearst Magazine Media, Inc. Retrieved October 28, 2022, from https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/holidays/halloween-ideas/g4630/best-new-halloween-treats/. 

 


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