Peanut Allergy Mom

The Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network (FAAN) has launched the FAAN College Network, a new web-based program that could change the way students with food allergies choose where to go to college by providing information that makes researching a potential school easier. Until now, prospective college students were left on their own to research questions about food allergy management at each college or university.

FAAN’s College Network serves as a clearinghouse of information enabling college-bound students to learn about different colleges’ approaches to food allergy management. They will also find contact information for people who can best answer questions about how food allergies are addressed at each college.

Food allergy is a growing public health concern in the U.S., and teens are the highest risk group for fatal, food-induced anaphylaxis.

“The FAAN College Network empowers prospective college students to manage their food allergies away from home,” said Julia Bradsher, CEO of FAAN.

The contacts in the FAAN College Network consist of Student Ambassadors, who are current college students with food allergies, and College Representatives, who work at a college or university and can help students manage their food allergies at their school.

“Having gone through this process several years ago, I can tell you that this will be a very valuable tool for parents and students,” said Lisa Punt, a parent of a current college student with food allergies.

“As we personally found out, every college is different and you need someone to help guide you through what to do and where to seek assistance.”

The FAAN College Network is one of many ways FAAN demonstrates its commitment to food allergy awareness and education. For more information on food allergies, visit www.foodallergy.org.