For most people, the hardest part of a trip to the movies is agreeing on what box-office blockbuster they want to go see. People with food allergies, though, find those decisions easy when compared with choosing movie theater snacks.
More than 32 million people have some type of food allergy and it’s not always possible to bring snacks from home. Nor is it any fun just to avoid the concession counter altogether, because settling in to watch a favorite movie with popcorn and candy is part of the theater experience. But it doesn’t have to be an ordeal if you know what to look for.
This article offers some smart choices at the concession stand when you or your kids have a food allergy. Before you head to the movies, you’ll know what to avoid—and what you can all enjoy.
Dairy Allergy
Maybe you love the classic “Charlie and The Chocolate Factory” film, but it’s not always a good idea to have the chocolate candy. Most allergies linked to chocolate are really a reaction to other ingredients, and many chocolate products have milk in them.
That’s true of some popcorn butter seasonings too, although popcorn can be ordered without butter. Be sure to ask about vegan popcorn. Dairy is also hidden in places you may not think of, such as the salt that goes on the movie popcorn.
Egg Allergy
After dairy, egg products are the second-leading cause of allergy in children. They’re hidden in many foods, too, so be sure to check if eggs are an ingredient in baked goods, like cookies or crackers. They also may be an unwelcome surprise in the breads used for hot dogs and burgers.
Chicken tenders
Mike and Ike candies
Sodas
Milk chocolate candies
Popcorn with salt or butter containing dairy
Nachos and cheeseburgers
Peanut Allergy
This one’s not just about the kids, because most people with peanut allergies will have them all their lives. In fact, more than 17% of the 4.6 million U.S. adults with peanut allergies developed them after childhood. So “mature audiences” need to know what to watch for in theater snacks too.
Pretzel bites
Plain popcorn
Chips and salsa
Chocolate chip cookies
Chicken sandwiches
Mayo and salad dressings
The good news is that most movie theater popcorns are not made with peanut oils.
Peanut exposure in people with allergies can be life-threatening when severe, and it’s important to remember that food may not be the only exposure. Call ahead to ask about how the seats and floor of the theater are cleaned, and whether there are early show times when the theater is “cleaner.” This could help you avoid accidental exposure to stray peanut residue.
Twizzlers
Whoppers
Swedish Fish
Peanuts (obviously)
Ice cream and frozen treats
Chocolate candies
Be sure to always carry an EpiPen in the event of a reaction.
Soy Allergy
Soy allergies affect roughly 1.5 million people in the U.S. and they’re not unusual in people who also cope with peanut allergies. People allergic to soy-based products find that, as with peanuts, it’s not always straightforward about which foods have them.
Soy and its oils may be found in candies and baked goods, but also in meat-free and “healthy” snack choices like energy bars or smoothies. Soy can also be hidden in places you may not think of, so make sure you ask what kind of oil they use to make their plain popcorn (Canola is good).
Tree Nut Allergy
If your child is allergic to almonds or walnuts, there’s a good chance they’re allergic to pecans and pistachios too. Most people with tree nut allergies react to more than one type of nut. This includes people with peanut allergies even though peanuts are legumes and grow on completely different kinds of plants.
Dots, Starbursts
Some milkshakes
Pretzel bites
Ice cream cones
Burgers or hotdogs with meat fillers
Chocolate candies and cookies
Testing for tree nut allergies can be complicated, and it’s not easy to know which nuts may cause an allergic reaction. It’s best to avoid any theater snacks that you think may have tree nuts.
Wheat and Gluten Allergies
Gluten is a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley grains, and it’s the cause of gluten sensitivity even in those who don’t have celiac disease. Gluten also shows up in movie theater foods where you may not expect it. Ice cream may be fine, for example, but not if you’re choosing cookie dough or another flavor with added ingredients containing gluten.
Nachos and salsa
Chicken tenders and fries
Nut-free candies
Gourmet popcorns
Hot cocoa drinks
Trail mixes and energy bars
Fortunately, there are now many gluten-free cookies, chips, drinks, and candies to make it easier.
More Tips for Allergy-Safe Movie Trips
Before You Arrive
Take the time to call your local theater first, and find out how their popcorn is prepared and what’s on the ingredient list. Many theaters even have comprehensive lists.
Plain popcorn
Raisinets and M&M Originals
Smarties and Jelly Beans
Malted milk products (Whoppers)
Sandwich buns, pizza crust, pretzels
Cookies and baked goods
Recap
There are plenty of allergen-free options at the movie theater, but there are also pitfalls. It’s best to check with your local manager ahead of time, or look at resources provided by AMC or other chains.
If in doubt, remember that some candies—Sweet Tarts and Sour Patch Kids among them—are free from any of the eight major allergens.
Aside from popcorn and candy, see what other foods are available at the theater. Many theaters serve chicken or hot dog meals, nachos, milkshakes, and ice cream.
At the Concession Stand
Be sure to read ingredient labels on popcorn or other foods you purchase to ensure that it’s safe for you or your child. Don’t hesitate to ask a manager or counter staff if you’re having trouble choosing.
Get familiar with the ingredients in your favorite candies. Knowing what candies contain gluten, dairy, or nuts will help you and your child to choose the best snack option and free you to enjoy the movie.
When you’re done at the counter, thoroughly wash your hands to avoid any risk of contamination with food allergens.
Summary
Food allergies may limit your snack options at the cinema, but choosing safe snacks doesn’t have to be an ordeal. Plan ahead and don’t be afraid to ask questions. With the right information and preparation, you’ll be all set to sit back, relax, snack, and enjoy the show.
