Latex Allergy and Food question

[jrmende63]

Hi I was wondering if anyone else has Latex allergy and if so how did the galley handle the food preparation? I am going on the Spirit in May and have spoken with Carnival and they tell me that they will prepare my food separately, since they do use latex gloves. They told me this is a common request and I would be fine. I want to know if it is so common to have latex allergy why do they use the latex gloves and not vinyl ones

[Larry in Miami]

I would think cost for one and the latex conform better to your hand. They are pretty standard in commercial kitchens.

How will that work for eating at places other than the dinning room?

[jrmende63]

Larry...no the cost is not the issue. And as for conforming on your hands better..that is not true either. I am a RN and KNOW there are non latex gloves that are just as good...I know because I use them every day at work.
as for the buffet...I don't know...I am going to go to the doc and see if something like benadryl will help.
All I know is this is NOT going to ruin my cruise!!!

[Larry in Miami]

Okay, I have never really paid that much attention to it. I'm not sure why latex seems to be the standard. Everyone is always concerned about saving a dollar so I just assumed it was a cost issue.

I'm sure someone here will have an answer

[new2cruise]

I too am an RN and have also developed an allergy to Latex. For our cruise, I didn't even think about asking my food to be prepared separately and luckily, I never had a problem. Granted, my allergy hasn't developed into anaphylaxis from airborne particles...just the hives if I wear them.
Thank goodness my hospital has gone completely non-latex. Developing a latex allergy seems to be a trend with so many of us healthcare professionals.

[Sandy]

jr, just out of curiosity, do you have a problem with food handlers using latex gloves when you eat in a restaurant on land?

Sandy

[jrmende63]

I am going to call operations today to speak with a Carnival representative. I see NO reason why these gloves cannot be substituted for NON latex. I am really glad you did not have a problem with the food on your cruise. Julie

[jrmende63]

Originally posted by Sandy:
jr, just out of curiosity, do you have a problem with food handlers using latex gloves when you eat in a restaurant on land?

Sandy

Yes I do have a problem in ANY restaurant. I have to watch that they don't cheat and try to use the latex on my food or utensils. Julie

[Sandy]

Sounds like a really strong allergy. I hope you carry an epipen with you.

Sandy

[jrmende63]

Sandy...funny you should mention an epipen...my coworker said the same thing tonight! I am planning to get one...but did not know how the airlines would deal with the needle? I am hoping to just have an antihistmine with me to counter act the latex if I come into contact with it. I spoke to Carnival today...several employees in fact...they all assure me that I won't have any trouble but I want to be prepared anyway! Julie