The smells of buttery popcorn and sweet fairy floss are already drifting from the Sydney Showgrounds. But these days it’s not just about classic-carnival fare! With whacky food combos like gummy-bear fries and exotic dishes from every corner of the globe- The Sydney Royal Easter Show is a foodie’s paradise … unless you are one of the millions of Aussies living with a food allergy or intolerance.
Australia has one of the highest rates of food allergies in the world. For some, managing them isn’t just about avoiding a rash, it’s life and death. But food FOMO be gone!
This year the show is hosting over 300 food vendors – many offering allergy-friendly options. To help us navigate it safely, we spoke with Grace Mavrelis, from Eating Out With Food Allergies.
Grace lives with anaphylaxis to multiple allergens including dairy, egg, sesame, kiwi, tree nuts and certain seafoods – so when she says it is possible to eat out safely at big events like this, she knows her stuff! So… is there allergen safe food at the show? And if there is, is it even any good?!
It was a resounding “YES!” to both questions, so we asked Grace about her dream day of eating safe at this year’s show:
- Sushi Hub
A familiar fave with an online allergen menu. Grace loves their mini avocado rolls and the salmon nigiri. It’s fresh, simple, and safe!
- Dole Whip
Soft-serve lovers, rejoice! Dole Whip is dairy-free, egg-free, gluten-free, nut-free and vegan. Grace’s pick? Strawberry and pineapple swirl. Yum!
- Brother Jacks & Co.
One of the new kids on the block; this dedicated gluten-free food truck’s serving up deep fried classics including burgers, nuggets, and chip-on-a-stick. Grace emailed ahead of time and was thrilled to receive an allergen chart with safe options – proof that asking questions pays off!
- Maddox Twisty Potatoes
Another tick of approval for their allergy safe chip-on-a-stick! If you’ve ever had to skip this iconic show snack – this could be your year!
Top Tips Before You Go:
- Know where the medical tents are.
- Pack your EpiPen and Antihistamines.
- Screenshot the site map.
- Research vendors at eastershow.com.au
- Communicate with staff before ordering.
- If you’re unsure – ask! Still usure? Avoid.
Being allergy-aware doesn’t mean missing out, it just means planning ahead.
With advocates like Grace showing us the way, food FOMO is cancelled.
Now go forth and snack safely!
Follow Grace on Instagram & Facebook @eating_out_with_food_allergies
TikTok: EatingWithFoodAllergies
