Monday, March 15, 2010

Can you find the hidden dairy?

Whenever we have a sleep setback, I immediately examine baby J and my diets. And I am usually right. So, here are some of my surprising findings over the past few months. Remember, dairy doesn't have to be listed as an allergen on food labels and is often disguised as "filler" or "flavoring". The only way to know for sure is to call a food manufacturer.

Having a child with food allergies makes a parent very alert of ingredients and food labels. In the list below, can you detect which seven (7) contain dairy?

Gorton's Fish Sticks
Oscar Mayer Turkey Bacon
Dinty Moore Beef Stew
McDonald's French Fries
Campbell's Chicken Noodle Soup
Veggie Slices brand Cheese Food Alternative
Oscar Mayer Hot Dogs
Johnsonville Bratwurst
Frito Corn Chips
Rice-A-Roni Chicken Rice
Imperial Margarine
Int'l Delight Non-Dairy Coffee Creamer
Barilla Spaghetti Noodles

Ready for the shocking surprise?
Gorton's Fish Sticks- as well as most products dipped in batter
McDonald's French Fries- dipped in a milk bath prior to frying; similar process with most fast food restaurants
Veggie Slices brand Cheese Food Alternative
Oscar Mayer Hot Dogs- most hot dogs contain a dairy powder filler; only one that doesn't is Hebrew National. Any meat product marked kosher will be 100% dairy-free according to ancient Jewish tradition
Johnsonville Bratwurst- same as hot dogs and most sausage products, including Italian and Polish sausages
Imperial Margarine contains sweet cream. The only butter substitue I have found is Smart Balance Light (labeled Vegan).
Int'l Delight Non-Dairy Coffee Creamer

The lesson, read labels in detail, especially when allergies are involved.

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