Peanut-free zones: schools first, then ballparks?

The hot debate this month asks –
 Should peanuts be banned from schools?

Because peanut allergies can be a life-threatening reaction, more and more schools and daycare facilities across the country are banning peanuts and peanut products from school lunches. Among the food allergies, peanut is especially more dangerous because of three reasons. First, it can take very minute particles (1/100) of a peanut to cause a reaction. Second, nut dust such as coming from peanut shells, are easily airborne that’s why you hear stories of people reacting merely to the presence of peanut in a room or enclosed space. Third, peanut oil can leave residues that are difficult to clean from a surface, whether that’s a table, chair, cooking pan or doorknobs.

Trevor Elementary School made headlines recently with the enforcement of a peanut ban across the school, at the instigation of a parent.

Lisa Alberti, director of Trevor elementary school, says it makes is easier on everyone – school officials, teachers, students, parents – be this clear-cut about the policy. She said, ”We’re not talking about her getting the sniffles.” 

However, not everyone sees the ban as a positive thing. Opponents to the band include parents and children who eat nothing except peanut butter sandwiches for lunch. Believe it or not, the Food Allergy Network says banning peanuts from schools does not work. “They’re counterproductive, and they create a false sense of security,” says Ann Munoz-Furlong, founder of the network. Instead the organization believes vigilance and education are keys to properly manage the allergy. That means teaching allergy education to students, teachers and staff; training those with allergies to carry their adrenaline packs everywhere; establishing peanut-free zones in the school cafeteria. 

Interestingly enough, ballpark stadiums are now creating peanut-free galleries, so patrons with allergies can go and watch a game.  Now that I think is a good thing.