With as many as 15 million Americans suffer from food allergies, SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment has introduced a new line of allergy-friendly dining initiatives for guests at its 10 parks, including SeaWorld, Busch Gardens and Sesame Place. The initiatives range from personalized service to new menu options.

“We serve millions of guests each year and are committed to provide each a great experience. For families with allergen concerns, we understand how challenging it can be to safely dine out, especially while on vacation,” said Jim Atchison, President and Chief Executive Officer of SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment. “Our new initiatives ‘serve up’ a family experience that everyone can enjoy.”

The company partnered with the Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network (FAAN) to educate and train more than 6,000 culinary employees to assist guests with allergen needs. With more than 22,000 members worldwide, FAAN is a trusted source of information, programs, and resources related to food allergy and anaphylaxis.

Park restaurant managers and supervisors will work one-on-one with guests and oversee the preparation of each allergen-friendly meal from start to finish.  Chef Cards filled out in advance by guests to outline the foods to avoid, are handed to a chef before the preparation of the meal. All park restaurants are equipped and trained to take care of guests with allergen needs.

Additionally, the attractions are offering more menu options, ranging from gluten-free pizza to an allergen-friendly Shamu-shaped chocolate bars. The parks also provide prepackaged snacks such as cookies from companies that specialize in allergen-friendly foods including Divvies and Gluten Free to Go.