When your business is hosting a corporate event or even an internal meeting, catering is convenient. You can keep people on site—and satiated—and spare them the hassle of finding food elsewhere. To ensure everybody's safety and comfort, however, it's best to avoid common allergens when planning the catering menu. Steer clear of the below items.

5 of the Most Frequent Food Allergies

1. Milk

Don't equate a milk allergy with lactose intolerance. People who are allergic to milk have an immune response resulting in symptoms like wheezing, vomiting, hives, and—in severe cases—anaphylaxis. Cow's milk is the most common cause, but sheep and goat milk products can also be responsible.

2. Eggs

Deviled eggs are a catering favorite, but they can also trigger allergies. Most people are allergic to the whites of the egg, not the yolk. They may also have a reaction to other forms of eggs, like egg powder.

3. Nuts

Tree nuts, like almonds, cashews, and pistachios, cause allergies in an estimated 1% of the U.S. population, while peanut allergies specifically affect some three million Americans. Some people may be allergic only to one type of nut, while others may get symptoms from multiple sources.

4. Shellfish

Shrimp, lobster, and scallops can trigger allergies because of a protein they contain, tropomyosin. The symptoms are similar to those that would come with eating contaminated seafood, including abdominal pain and gastrointestinal issues. This makes it tough to diagnose a shellfish allergy.

5. Wheat

A wheat allergy is actually a response to a protein found in the grain. This is different from celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. The symptoms are similar to those of most food allergies, including vomiting, rashes, digestive distress, and anaphylaxis.

Corporate Caterers serves the greater Atlanta, GA, area with tasty and reliable corporate catering. Whether you need an in-office breakfast or a business lunch, they have you covered. They operate Monday to Friday, offering breakfast, lunch, snack breaks, and beverage services. Their skilled staff will set up the food and clean up afterward. To arrange a catering service, call (770) 649-4721 or complete the online order form.