What's In Your Drink?

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Are you sure you know what’s in that cocktail or that specialty brew? The holiday season is abundant with holiday parties, where alcoholic beverages may be served. For adults managing food allergies, food is not the only concern.

Food allergens such as tree nuts and milk are found in many cocktails. Wheat is prevalent in many beers. Aside from being vigilant about the ingredients in beverages, adults managing food allergies must also take care to use caution with alcoholic beverages to ensure that their judgment is not negatively affected and that their ability to make decisions, recognize a reaction, and administer medication is not impaired. Alcohol can influence how quickly a food allergen is absorbed into the body, resulting in symptoms occurring at a faster pace.

Here are some examples of major food allergens in alcohol:

  • Tree nuts in some specialty beers (particularly seasonal ales)
  • Hazelnuts in Frangelico®
  • Milk in Irish cream
  • Egg used to create “froth” on top of some beverages
  • Almonds in amaretto
  • Milk in white chocolate liqueurs
  • Almonds in some brands of gin

If you’re planning on drinking alcohol at a bar or at a party with a bar, also be mindful of cross-contact potential with cocktail shakers. Those avoiding certain allergens should also be careful when garnishes are used for cocktails.

This holiday season, raise a glass to your loved ones – but be safe!