As one of them—and someone who loves dining out with friends and family—I’ve often found myself in frustrating, even frightening situations. Asking waitstaff about allergens can lead to confusion, delays, and uncertainty, especially when they have to check with the kitchen and relay information back and forth. More often than not, I’ve had to change my order mid-conversation or settle for something I didn’t want just to feel safe.

Through my research, I found that I’m not alone. Many people with food allergies or dietary restrictions face similar challenges, turning what should be a joyful experience into one filled with anxiety and hesitation.