FAACT's Roundtable

Navigating college with food allergies can feel overwhelming—from choosing a school and touring campuses to move-in day and staying safe once you’re there. It’s a big transition, with added layers of responsibility. That’s why FAACT created a College Resource Center, built from real questions our community is asking—such as what to ask on tours, how to set up accommodations, what to do when things don’t go as planned, and how to navigate everyday college life. This podcast walks you through a few key highlights to help you guide your student with more confidence. Resources to keep you in the know: FAACT's College Resource CenterFor Parents/Caregivers College ChecklistsFor Students College ChecklistsLegal Considerations CenterFor Students: How to ConversationsDisaster Preparedness at College with Food AllergiesFAACT's Private Facebook Group for Parents/Caregivers of High School and College Students with Food AllergiesFAACT's Roundtable Podcast can be found on Apple Podcast, Pandora, Spotify, Podbay, iHeart Radio or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, BlueSky, LinkedIn, Pinterest, TikTok, and YouTube. Sponsored by: Genentech Thanks for listening! FAACT invites you to discover more exciting food allergy resources at FoodAllergyAwareness.org!

What do you do when your child has that first allergic reaction—and your allergist appointment is still weeks, maybe even months, away? That in-between time can feel overwhelming, with so many questions and not enough answers. We’re sitting down with FAACT Medical Advisory Board Member, Dr. Justin Greiwe, to walk through practical steps families can take right now to stay safe, feel more confident, and navigate this uncertain window. Resources to keep you in the know: FAACT's Newly Diagnosed sectionFAACT's Newly Diagnosed GuideFAACT's Living With Food Allergies Resource CenterYou can find FAACT's Roundtable Podcast on Apple Podcast, Pandora, Spotify, Podbay, iHeart Radio or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, BlueSky, Threads, LinkedIn, Pinterest, TikTok, and YouTube. Sponsored by: ARS Pharma Thanks for listening! FAACT invites you to discover more exciting food allergy resources at FoodAllergyAwareness.org!

This episode is all about inspiration. We’re shining a spotlight on a remarkable young woman who is using her voice and platform to make a meaningful impact in the food allergy community. We’re honored to welcome FAACT’s newest National Spokesperson, Tess Ferm, Miss America’s Teen 2026! Tess joins us to share her personal food allergy journey and why educating others and raising awareness has become such a powerful part of her mission. Resources to keep you in the know: Miss America - Tess Fermtessferm.sc@missamericasteenFAACT's Roundtable Podcast can be found on Apple Podcast, Pandora, Spotify, Podbay, iHeart Radio or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, BlueSky, LinkedIn, Pinterest, TikTok, and YouTube. Sponsored by: Genentech Thanks for listening! FAACT invites you to discover more exciting food allergy resources at FoodAllergyAwareness.org!

The dietary management of food allergies includes identifying the allergen that triggers a reaction and avoiding foods that contain that allergen. As a result, children with dietary restrictions due to food allergies may be at risk for inadequate nutritional intake. We sat down with Andie Lee Gonzalez, Senior Pediatric Medical Science Liaison with Abbott Nutrition Medical Affairs and Research, who describes the role of specialized nutrition support and why it’s important in the dietary management of food allergies. Resources to keep you in the know: anhi.orgDiagnosis and Appropriate Identification of Food AllergyDoes Your Child Have a Food Allergy?You can find FAACT's Roundtable Podcast on Apple Podcast, Pandora, Spotify, Podbay, iHeart Radio or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, BlueSky, Threads, LinkedIn, Pinterest, TikTok, and YouTube. Sponsored by: Abbott Thanks for listening! FAACT invites you to discover more exciting food allergy resources at FoodAllergyAwareness.org!

Traveling with food allergies happens every day for thousands of families. But as many of us know, travel takes planning—and even the best plans don’t always go the way we expect. Flights get delayed, restaurants change menus, and sometimes we’re asked to make quick decisions in unfamiliar places. So how do we prepare not just our travel plans, but also our mindset? How do we build the confidence and coping skills to stay calm and pivot when the unexpected happens? Joining us to talk about navigating travel and those unplanned moments is psychologist and Founder of The Food Allergy Hive, Elizabeth Hawkins, PhD, MPH. She’ll help us explore how to develop a healthier, more flexible travel mindset. Resources to keep you in the know: The Food Allergy HiveFood Allergy Hive MembershipFAACT Behavioral Health Resource CenterFAACT's Roundtable Podcast can be found on Apple Podcast, Pandora, Spotify, Podbay, iHeart Radio or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, BlueSky, LinkedIn, Pinterest, TikTok, and YouTube. Sponsored by: National Peanut Board Thanks for listening! FAACT invites you to discover more exciting food allergy resources at FoodAllergyAwareness.org!

Our guest, Steve Gendel, PhD, brings more than 30 years of experience in food safety science, regulation, and policy. From a manufacturer’s perspective, we’ll unpack the real-world differences between gluten and wheat, how food processing works, and the role processing aids can play. Together, we’ll explore what all of this means for managing allergies and making safer, more confident choices when shopping. Resources to keep you in the know: Gendel Food Safety, LLCSteven Gendel - LinkedInYou can find FAACT's Roundtable Podcast on Apple Podcast, Pandora, Spotify, Podbay, iHeart Radio or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, BlueSky, Threads, LinkedIn, Pinterest, TikTok, and YouTube. Sponsored by: ACAAI Thanks for listening! FAACT invites you to discover more exciting food allergy resources at FoodAllergyAwareness.org!

This year, the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology’s Scientific Meeting (AAAAI) was held in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, centered on the theme Advancing Precision Medicine from Discovery to Patient Care. While these meetings are filled with complex research and new developments, what matters most to families is what it all means for their children and daily life with food allergies. Joining us today to break it all down in his signature warm and easy-to-understand style is FAACT Medical Advisory Board Chair, Dr. Shahzad Mustafa, who will share the key takeaways parents and caregivers should know from this important meeting. Resources to keep you in the know: AAAAIYou can find FAACT's Roundtable Podcast on Apple Podcast, Pandora, Spotify, Podbay, iHeart Radio or wherever you listen to your podcasts. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, BlueSky, Threads, LinkedIn, Pinterest, TikTok, and YouTube. Sponsored by: Genentech Thanks for listening! FAACT invites you to discover more exciting food allergy resources at FoodAllergyAwareness.org!

The holiday season is a time for laughter, togetherness, and creating special memories. But for families managing food allergies, it can also bring unique challenges—extra planning, heightened stress, and the worry of staying safe during celebrations. In this episode, we’re talking about how to balance the joy of the season with the realities of food allergy management. We’re joined by licensed psychologist, Amanda Whitehouse, PhD, who will share thoughtful strategies for reducing holiday stress and anxiety, so you and your loved ones can focus on what truly matters—connection, celebration, and peace of mind. Resources to keep you in the know: Amanda Whitehouse, PhD - WebsiteDon’t Feed the Fear Podcast@thefoodallergypyschologistAmanda Whitehouse, Food Allergy Anxiety PsychologistYou can find FAACT's Roundtable Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Pandora, Spotify, Podbay, iHeart Radio, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, BlueSky, Threads, LinkedIn, Pinterest, TikTok, and YouTube. Sponsored by: DBV Technologies Thanks for listening! FAACT invites you to discover more exciting food allergy resources at FoodAllergyAwareness.org!

It's often said that the food on the Hanukkah table is more than just a meal—it's a powerful vehicle for storytelling, education, and a communal celebration of faith and resilience. But how do we bridge the gap between embracing those rich cultural traditions and keeping all our loved ones with food allergies safe and included? We’re tackling that crucial question. We are so pleased to welcome food allergy advocates and parents, Jen and Seth Togal, to share their invaluable tips and creative ideas for ensuring a joyous and safe Hanukkah, and at every holiday table. Resources to keep you in the know: FAACT's Hanukkah ResourcesFAACT's Food Allergy-Friendly Hanukkah Pinterest BoardFAACT's Podcast Episode: The ADINA ActYou can find FAACT's Roundtable Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Pandora, Spotify, Podbay, iHeart Radio, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, BlueSky, Threads, LinkedIn, Pinterest, TikTok, and YouTube. Sponsored by: Genentech Thanks for listening! FAACT invites you to discover more exciting food allergy resources at FoodAllergyAwareness.org!

We all know the teen brain is still growing and changing—and that means it doesn’t always think or act like an adult brain. The teen years are full of discovery, independence, and yes, a bit of risk-taking. But what happens when you add food allergies into the mix? How do brain development and decision-making affect how teens manage their safety and choices? To help us unpack this fascinating topic, we’re joined by renowned psychologist, Nancy Rotter, PhD, who will share insights into how the teen brain works—and how parents, caregivers, and educators can better support young people navigating life with food allergies. Resources to keep you in the know: Nancy Rotter, PhD, Mass GeneralFAACT Podcast Episode: Epinephrine 101FAACT's Living with Food Allergies: Dining OutFAACT's Reading Labels PosterYou can find FAACT's Roundtable Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Pandora, Spotify, Podbay, iHeart Radio, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, BlueSky, Threads, LinkedIn, Pinterest, TikTok, and YouTube. Sponsored by: DBV Technologies Thanks for listening! FAACT invites you to discover more exciting food allergy resources at FoodAllergyAwareness.org!

Living with Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) requires constant awareness and preparation—but what happens when you hit the road or board a plane? We’re joined by content creator and patient advocate, Jenna Gestetner, who’s sharing her top strategies and favorite tips for traveling safely and confidently with MCAS. Resources to keep you in the know: Mast Cell Disease SocietyFAACT's Allergy SummitJennaXHealthInstagram: JennaXHealthTikTok: JennaXHealthYouTube: JennXHealthLinkedIn: Jenna GestetnerYou can find FAACT's Roundtable Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Pandora, Spotify, Podbay, iHeart Radio, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, BlueSky, Threads, LinkedIn, Pinterest, TikTok, and YouTube. Sponsored by: ARS Pharma Thanks for listening! FAACT invites you to discover more exciting food allergy resources at FoodAllergyAwareness.org!

Over the past year, the food allergy world has seen some truly exciting momentum—from new treatment approaches to innovative ways to deliver life-saving epinephrine. One breakthrough that has sparked a lot of conversation is the first FDA-approved epinephrine nasal spray, offering the first needle-free option for emergency allergic reactions. Today, we’re thrilled to welcome someone at the center of this innovation: Rich Lowenthal, Co-founder, President, and CEO of ARS Pharma—the company behind neffy®. Rich joins us to give an inside look at neffy’s milestone year, what’s ahead for this new treatment option, and how ARS Pharma’s 'Get neffy® on Us Program' is helping expand access for families nationwide. Resources to keep you in the know: Get neffy® On Usneffy®neffy® in SchoolsARS PharmaYou can find FAACT's Roundtable Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Pandora, Spotify, Podbay, iHeart Radio, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, BlueSky, Threads, LinkedIn, Pinterest, TikTok, and YouTube. Sponsored by: ARS Pharma Thanks for listening! FAACT invites you to discover more exciting food allergy resources at FoodAllergyAwareness.org!

We all know what it’s like to manage food allergies in our own kitchens — but what happens when that kitchen belongs to a busy restaurant? We’re taking you behind the scenes with Chef Keith Norman, FAACT Board Member, Assistant Executive Chef, and Food Safety Manager at the South Point Hotel, Casino, and Spa. Chef Keith is sharing what it really takes to keep guests safe, plus some practical tips for anyone managing food allergies or special diets when dining out. Resources to keep you in the know: FAACT's Living with Food Allergies: Dining OutFAACT's Dining Out PosterAbout Chef Keith NormanYou can find FAACT's Roundtable Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Pandora, Spotify, Podbay, iHeart Radio, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, BlueSky, Threads, LinkedIn, Pinterest, TikTok, and YouTube. Sponsored by: ARS Pharma Thanks for listening! FAACT invites you to discover more exciting food allergy resources at FoodAllergyAwareness.org!

Earlier this month, more than 2,500 allergists and healthcare professionals gathered in Orlando, Florida, for the annual meeting of the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology—better known as ACAAI. It’s one of the biggest events of the year where experts share the latest research, treatments, and guidelines in allergy and immunology. We’re thrilled to be joined by this year’s keynote speaker, program chair—and FAACT Medical Board Member—Dr. Kristin Sokol, MD, MS, MPH, who shares highlights and key takeaways from this cutting-edge meeting. Resources to keep you in the know: American College of Allergy Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI)Schreiber AllergyYou can find FAACT's Roundtable Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Pandora, Spotify, Podbay, iHeart Radio, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, BlueSky, Threads, LinkedIn, Pinterest, TikTok, and YouTube. Sponsored by: Genentech Thanks for listening! FAACT invites you to discover more exciting food allergy resources at FoodAllergyAwareness.org!

The holidays are here—and that means airports, carry-ons, and crowded flights. But for those managing food allergies, air travel comes with extra challenges that require thoughtful preparation and a bit of attentiveness. Joining us today is airline correspondent, safety advocate, and founder of The No Nut Traveler, Lianne Mandelbaum. Lianne has been a leading voice for safer skies for passengers with food allergies, and she’s here to share practical tips—from pre-boarding strategies to proactive planning—so you and your loved ones can travel with confidence this holiday season. Resources to keep you in the know: Traveling with Food AllergiesAirlines and Food Allergies Airlines and Allergies GuideNo Nut TravelerTSA CaresYou can find FAACT's Roundtable Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Pandora, Spotify, Podbay, iHeart Radio, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, BlueSky, Threads, LinkedIn, Pinterest, TikTok, and YouTube. Thanks for listening! FAACT invites you to discover more exciting food allergy resources at FoodAllergyAwareness.org!

You’ve probably heard of Oral Immunotherapy—or OIT—a treatment that’s gaining attention in the food allergy world. But what’s it really like to go through the process? Many families discover there’s more to OIT than they expected. To help unpack the basics and offer clarity, we’re talking with allergist, Dr. Brian Vickery, about what to know before beginning this journey. Resources to keep you in the know: Resources to keep you in the know:FAACT's Food Allergy Treatments SectionFAACT's Navigating Treatment Choices SectionFAACT's Navigating the Food Allergy Treatment Decision ProcessYou can find FAACT's Roundtable Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Pandora, Spotify, Podbay, iHeart Radio, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, BlueSky, Threads, LinkedIn, Pinterest, TikTok, and YouTube. Sponsored by: Stallergenes Greer Thanks for listening! FAACT invites you to discover more exciting food allergy resources at FoodAllergyAwareness.org!

Just like with food allergies, there are other conditions where avoiding certain foods is essential. One of those is Eosinophilic Gastrointestinal Disease, or EGID. To help us better understand this complex condition, we’re joined today by Melissa Sauter—an advocate, parent, and Founder of Eosinophilic Parents of Utah. Melissa brings both personal experience and deep knowledge, and her positive outlook will leave you not only inspired but also better informed about life with EGID. Resources to keep you in the know: Eosinophilic Patients of Utah Facebook GroupFAACT's Related Conditions and Disorders Associated with Food AllergyAmerican Partnership for Eosinophilic Disorders (APFED)Campaign for Urging Research for Eosinophilic Disease Foundation (CURED)You can find FAACT's Roundtable Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Pandora, Spotify, Podbay, iHeart Radio, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, BlueSky, Threads, LinkedIn, Pinterest, TikTok, and YouTube. Sponsored by: Takeda Thanks for listening! FAACT invites you to discover more exciting food allergy resources at FoodAllergyAwareness.org!

As kids, we often rely on our families to help keep us safe from allergens. But what happens when you’re an adult heading out to restaurants, clubs, or Halloween parties? Today we’re joined by Food Allergy Content Creator, Influencer, and Sarah and Spices founder, Sarah Danna, who’s here to share practical tips for staying safe while still having a fun, worry-free Halloween. Resources to keep you in the know: Allergy and Anaphylaxis Emergency PlansSarah and Spices WebsiteYou can find FAACT's Roundtable Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Pandora, Spotify, Podbay, iHeart Radio, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, BlueSky, Threads, LinkedIn, Pinterest, TikTok, and YouTube. Sponsored by: DBV Technologies Thanks for listening! FAACT invites you to discover more exciting food allergy resources at FoodAllergyAwareness.org!

Even the most experienced patients and caregivers can sometimes become a little too comfortable when it comes to managing epinephrine. Over time, it’s easy to overlook key details or forget important steps. To help everyone stay sharp and fully prepared, renowned allergist, Dr. Michael Pistiner, joins us to talk all things epinephrine. Think of this conversation as both a refresher and a quick self-check to be sure you’re up-to-date and ready when it matters most. Resources to keep you in the know: Allergy and Anaphylaxis Emergency PlansFAACT's Epinephrine Options PosterFAACT's Anaphylaxis ResourcesAllergy HomeYou can find FAACT's Roundtable Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Pandora, Spotify, Podbay, iHeart Radio, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, BlueSky, Threads, LinkedIn, Pinterest, TikTok, and YouTube. Sponsored by: Aquestive Therapeutics Thanks for listening! FAACT invites you to discover more exciting food allergy resources at FoodAllergyAwareness.org!

Anaphylaxis can happen to anyone, at any time — but when it comes to infants and toddlers, the signs, symptoms, and response can feel especially overwhelming. Do reactions look the same as in older children or adults? What about emergency steps and epinephrine dosing? To bring clarity and confidence to caregivers and the food allergy community, we’re joined today by renowned allergist, Dr. Michael Pistiner, who will help clear up common questions, confusion, and fears around managing anaphylaxis in our youngest patients. Resources to keep you in the know: Allergy and Anaphylaxis Emergency PlansFAACT's Anaphylaxis ResourcesFAACT's Epinephrine Options PosterAllergy HomeYou can find FAACT's Roundtable Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Pandora, Spotify, Podbay, iHeart Radio, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, BlueSky, Threads, LinkedIn, Pinterest, TikTok, and YouTube. Sponsored by: Kaleo Thanks for listening! FAACT invites you to discover more exciting food allergy resources at FoodAllergyAwareness.org!