Call 112 for ambulance or fire services in the European Union.
Food and preparation conversations
Dish names and recipes vary. These are prompts for a conversation, not a list of foods that are automatically unsafe.
Bread, bakery and beer-related ingredients
Cereals containing gluten are common in breads and baked dishes. Ask about flour dust, shared bakery equipment and ingredients used in sauces or coatings.
Sausages, soups and sauces
Mustard, celery, milk, egg or cereals can be present in prepared meats, stocks and sauces. Ask staff to check the supplier label when the recipe is not made on site.
Buffets and breakfast service
Shared tongs, cutting boards, toaster areas and serving spoons can create cross-contact. Individually sealed foods may be easier to verify.
A sample German allergy statement
Ich habe schwere Nahrungsmittelallergien gegen Sesam, ErdnĂĽsse und Eier.
Build a card with the traveler’s exact allergens before using it.Questions to ask the restaurant
- Can the kitchen check every ingredient, sauce, garnish and cooking oil used in this dish?
- Is the same fryer, grill, pan, knife, board or serving utensil used for my allergen?
- Can my meal be prepared with clean hands, clean utensils and a clean preparation area?
- If the kitchen cannot confirm the ingredients or cross-contact controls, what unopened or simply prepared option is available?
Before you go
- Save the German card before leaving reliable internet.
- Do not treat an allergen menu as a cross-contact guarantee.
- Locate emergency care near your accommodation.
- Review current official travel advice.
Official and primary sources
Links were checked during our August 12, 2026 review. Official guidance can change; inspect the current source before travel.
- Food allergies and allergen information in the EUEuropean Commission
- 112: the EU emergency phone numberEuropean Commission
- Germany travel adviceUK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
- Travelers’ Health destination guidanceU.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- International Travel Country InformationU.S. Department of State