In today's diverse and inclusivity-focused world, planning for an event like a conference goes far beyond just setting the date, finding a speaker, and booking a venue. Attendees' health and wellbeing have become a primary concern for any conscientious event organizer. Among these health considerations, food allergies loom large.

Food allergies are more common than many people realize. It is estimated that around 32 million people in the United States have food allergies, including 5.6 million children. If not taken seriously, these allergies can lead to severe health issues and can even be life-threatening. As a conference organizer, it's essential to ask the right questions to ensure the safety and comfort of all attendees.

Here are the food allergy-related questions that should be asked to attendees and venues:

Questions for Attendees

1. Do you have any food allergies? This should be the first and most important question. This information will guide the menu choices and alert the kitchen staff to potential hazards.

2. What is the severity of your allergy? Not all food allergies are the same. Some people experience mild discomfort, while others might have severe reactions. Knowing the severity will help in planning the necessary precautions.

3. What happens if you consume or come into contact with the allergen? Understanding the symptoms or reactions will help the organizer and the venue prepare for any potential health emergencies.

4. Do you carry an epinephrine autoinjector (EpiPen)? Some individuals with severe food allergies carry an EpiPen to counteract anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction. It’s important to know who might need immediate medical assistance in the case of accidental exposure.

Questions for Venues

1. Does your staff have food allergy training? The venue's staff needs to understand the seriousness of food allergies and be able to handle them properly. This includes everyone from the kitchen staff to the servers.

2. Can you accommodate special dietary needs? The venue should be flexible enough to provide meals free of common allergens like peanuts, tree nuts, milk, eggs, soy, wheat, fish, and shellfish.

3. Do you have separate equipment and areas to prepare allergen-free meals? Cross-contamination is a common issue in kitchens. Venues should have separate areas and utensils for preparing allergen-free food.

4. Do you have procedures in place for dealing with a food allergy emergency? The venue should be prepared to handle an emergency, including having first aid kits available and a clear plan for calling medical professionals if needed.

Ensuring the safety and comfort of all attendees requires careful planning and clear communication. By asking these questions, conference organizers can minimize the risk of food allergy-related incidents and create an inclusive environment for everyone.

Remember, no conference, no matter how informative or fun, is successful if the attendees' health and well-being are compromised. Let's plan for everyone and make conferences safe, inclusive spaces where ideas can be shared without worry.