Thursday, February 5, 2009
With Valentine's Day just around the corner, I wanted to share with you some great sources of safe treats.
Some of you may already know about these; if you don't then I'm happy to be able to introduce you to these sources! Please be aware that some of the sources are only "nut-free" and may contain other allergens.
The favorite chocolate treats in our house always arrive from Vermont Nut-Free Chocolate. I "heart" this chocolate seller! As I've found over the years, the more "gourmet" or "fancy" a chocolate product is, the more likely it is to contain nuts.
You never have to worry about that at Vermont Nut-Free. Check out their adorable Valentine's chocolates, including hearts, cupids and specially packaged "Skippers" (like an M&M, but nut-free) or heart-shaped chocolate pops. They also now sell sinful chocolate truffles that allergic adults will love to gobble up. My kids love this stuff--the whole family does. It is truly delicious, gourmet-style chocolate. If you have nut allergies in your family, do yourself a favor and check them out. You'll be a customer forever! (Note: they do use egg, dairy and soy).
Next up is A&J's Fancy Pants Bakery, the only online nut-free bakery I was able to find that sold Valentine-themed cookies. These are beautifully decorated and while they don't come cheap, if you want to offer your family some truly festive, nut-free, professionally decorated (unlike some of the attempts I make) cookies, you'll want to check them out. (Note: they do use egg and dairy and wheat.)
For multiple allergies, Enjoy Life Foods has some great Valentine's Day recipes that utilizes their allergy-free goodies. Check their site for local stores--they are sold at many supermarkets as well as Whole Foods Market. They have some really creative recipes that kids--and adults--will love for Valentine's Day! (Note: These treats are peanut-free, tree nut-free, dairy-free and egg-free--check the site for more details.)
Finally, FAB Snacks has special Valentine's Day treats packages geared towards many food allergies. Check out the site for details!
If anyone has any other Valentine-themed treats, let us know!