Call 112 for emergency 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.
Pasta and pizza preparation
Ask about the dough or pasta ingredients, flour in the work area, shared ovens and utensils. Gluten-free ingredients do not by themselves establish a cross-contact-controlled process.
Pesto, sauces and desserts
Tree nuts, milk, egg and wheat may be present. Ask whether a sauce or dessert is made in house and whether staff can check every component.
Seafood and shared fryers
Fish, shellfish and non-seafood items may share oil, grills or utensils. Ask about the fryer and cooking surface before ordering.
A sample Italian allergy statement
Ho gravi allergie alimentari a Sesamo, arachidi e Uova.
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 Italian phrases and selected allergen names offline.
- Ask about both ingredients and cross-contact.
- Keep a separate printed card as a backup.
- Check current official travel and health notices.
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
- Italy 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