Behind The Label

Thanksgiving is overall one of my favorite times of the year. Not just for the food, but also for the fact that it allows us to reflect and express gratitude. Living with food allergies, especially nut allergies, has shaped the way I approach many situations such as the holiday table. While it hasn’t always been easy, it’s also given me so much to be thankful for and skills learned. Here are some of the things as one with food allergies, I am thankful for:

I’m thankful for inclusion. For family and friends who go out of their way to make sure dishes are safe for me, or who ask questions about ingredients before bringing something to share. Those small gestures remind me that Thanksgiving isn’t only about what’s on the table—it’s about who’s at the table.

I’m thankful for creativity in the kitchen. Navigating allergies has pushed me to explore new flavors, find so many new passions for baking and cooking, allowed me to experiment with swaps in other traditional recipes, and find fun in recipes that are just as delicious without nuts. Whether it’s pumpkin bread, cookies, or pies, I’ve learned that food can be comforting and festive without sacrificing the safety of allergens.

I’m thankful for awareness and advocacy. Every year, I keep seeing more people recognizing the importance of allergy-friendly options and labeling. That progress makes holidays feel less isolating and more comfortable, not just for me, but for millions of others also navigating and dealing with food allergies.

Most of all, I’m thankful for the community. Through Behind the Label, I’ve found a space to share, connect, and remind others with allergies that they are not alone. Together, we can make the holiday season and the future safer and sweeter!!!

Happy Thanksgiving from Behind the Label!!!