Food Allergies - Schools & Restaurants

@ana in Australia, food allergies are common for kids too. Kids take their own lunches to school and some schools ban all kids from taking certain foods, others try to limit what kids take.

In Portugal, from my experience, the schools serve a 3-course lunch in a cafeteria-style area, but snacks for morning lunch and afternoons need to be taken by the kids themselves.

When my girls first started school here I asked the teachers if there were restrictions on what I could pack for the girls' snacks, there were no limitations. Seems food allergies here in Portugal almost don't exist, or very low. I have always been baffled and questioned why it isn't a big problem here like in some other countries.

Anyhow, my girls go to a private Portuguese school and each week they publish a "menu" where kids can choose what they will have for the following week. If your chosen school does the same, then you can perhaps choose the best meal for your daughter in advance.

Eating the school's meals aren't compulsory - some kids do take meals from home to eat. This could be another option if you are concerned.

About knowing how to use an EpiPen, I am not 100% sure. From my experience, the nurses in the school are great and I am sure they would do everything they can to help you and your daughter. 

Eating out - you will find restaurants who can help you without a doubt. We have (English) friends here with a son with gluten/celiac issues and he is usually okay in finding a meal. I think it would also be based on where you choose to live. Living in a bigger city or town you would more choices. Living rurally you may have more difficulties.