In a recent podcast episode, physical therapist and food allergy advocate Lianne Mandelbaum discusses her article on navigating air travel with food allergies. Her work highlights the challenges faced by passengers with food allergies, including dismissive airline staff and inadequate safety measures. Mandelbaum's advocacy focuses on combating misconceptions, urging airlines to adopt better policies, and encouraging medical professionals to counsel patients effectively.

Challenges and Misconceptions in Air Travel for Food-Allergic Passengers

In the heart of a season marked by vibrant skies, Lianne Mandelbaum, a passionate advocate for those with food allergies, shares her insights into the difficulties encountered during air travel. The discussion reveals alarming statistics, such as 31% of passengers refraining from disclosing allergies due to fear of repercussions, over a third facing unprofessional staff behavior, and 70% not receiving promised accommodations. Furthermore, more than 12% of passengers have been removed or denied boarding because of their allergies. These issues are compounded by misleading media coverage and an alarming lack of easily accessible epinephrine in airline medical kits as of 2025.

Mandelbaum emphasizes the importance of understanding data quality and the inconsistencies in how reactions are recorded. She points out that most people use their own autoinjectors, and many incidents go unreported. This creates a false impression of safety within the aviation industry. Additionally, she stresses the need for proper labeling laws for in-flight meals, which currently do not require complete ingredient disclosure. Physicians play a crucial role in educating patients about these risks and advocating for systemic changes.

A significant portion of the conversation revolves around dispelling common myths among both medical professionals and the general public. For instance, many believe that EpiPens are standard on all flights, which is untrue. Moreover, some passengers mistakenly think that using an EpiPen preemptively can prevent allergic reactions, leading to further confusion and potential danger.

From a broader perspective, Mandelbaum calls for increased awareness and empathy towards individuals with food allergies. She advocates for eliminating jokes and stereotypes surrounding food allergies, promoting education as a key tool in fostering understanding and ensuring safety.

Looking ahead, Mandelbaum envisions a future where airlines implement consistent policies, provide comprehensive training for staff, and stock necessary medications like epinephrine. By empowering passengers to report incidents and encouraging physicians to engage in proactive counseling, she hopes to create a safer environment for everyone involved in air travel.

As autumn unfolds with its golden hues, Mandelbaum’s message resonates deeply, reminding us of the urgent need for change and collaboration in addressing this critical issue.

From a journalistic standpoint, this conversation underscores the importance of accurate information dissemination and collaborative efforts between various stakeholders. It serves as a wake-up call for airlines, medical professionals, and the general public to recognize the seriousness of food allergies and take decisive action. By fostering an inclusive culture of understanding and support, we can pave the way for a more secure and compassionate world of travel.