Parents at a Melbourne school have been asked not to pack watermelon and bananas in lunchboxes because of severe allergies at the school.
In a letter to parents, Frank Vetere, the Principal of Point Cook College asked parents to avoid packing the popular fruits, as well as a number of food including, soy, wheat, eggs, dairy, seafood and nuts.
“It’s a real allergy that can cause them some significant harm.
“We’re not banning it, we just advise parents – because children can share food easily and we really want to avoid that and take proactive measures,” he said.
Experts at the Murdoch Children’s research institute say that allergies to fruit are among the more rare and allergic reactions could only develop if the produce is physically eaten.
“The main way you can get a severe allergic reaction is by eating the food, not sitting next to it or simply touching it. And allergy children are very good at making sure they know what they’re eating,” researcher Katie Allen told 9News.com.au.
Some parents have branded the new measures “over the top”.
“How ridiculous! Soon no bread, in case there is a trace of soy! It will be absolute hell for mothers lacking lunches,” said one mum.
“Teach your children not to touch anyone else’s food. Why should the majority of students miss out due to someone’s little darling,” said another.
However, parents who have children with similar allergies have hit back saying that sending their kids to school had become a nightmare.
Lisa Foely’s six year old son Ben has a number of severe allergies. She says that when she sends him to school she feels as if she is handing over his life.
While Lisa has done everything she can to educate teachers at Ben’s school, she feels there is always a risk that his allergies will not be taken seriously enough.
While it is easy for parents to label the banning of food “over the top” or “ridiculous”, these measures could be life saving for children like Ben.
“Just because it’s not your child doesn’t mean it doesn’t impact somebody else” says Lisa.
“If it was your child, how would you react?”
