Dietary Restrictions: Communicating Food Needs

Managing Food Allergies and Preferences

Communicating dietary needs in foreign languages prevents health issues and ensures enjoyable dining experiences.

Translation Cards

Create wallet cards in local language listing all allergies and restrictions. Show servers and food vendors before ordering.

Common Allergens

Learn local words for: nuts, dairy, gluten, shellfish, eggs, and soy. Practice pronunciation for verbal communication.

Restaurant Communication

Call ahead for special accommodations. Email dietary needs in local language. Many restaurants happily modify dishes with advance notice.

Vegetarian/Vegan Navigation

Research local meat-free options. Buddhist restaurants in Asia and Mediterranean mezze offer plant-based variety.

Cooking at Home

Controlling ingredients eliminates guesswork. International grocery stores stock familiar allergen-free products.

Support Networks

Join expat groups sharing dietary restrictions. Exchange restaurant recommendations and product sources.