From Anaphylaxis to Advocacy: Julianne Ponan on Allergy Education

This week we are joined by Julianne Ponan, our special guest who is an allergy expert and the founder of Creative Nature. Julianne recounts her personal experiences with food allergies and we discuss a harrowing anaphylactic incident involving ex-Love Island star Jack Fowler due to miscommunication about food safety on a flight. The discussion transitions to the risks associated with peanuts and other allergen-containing products on airplanes. Julianne emphasises the need for airlines to adopt stringent measures to protect passengers with severe allergies.  We also highlight positive steps taken by some airlines, such as Virgin Atlantic offering allergy-friendly snacks. Julianne speaks on the importance of education and awareness, especially among children in primary schools. Lucy remarks that children tend to see allergies factually and without prejudice—an observation underscored by Julianne’s organisation, which offers allergy education programs to reduce bullying and promote understanding. Listeners are invited to join the Oh For Foods Sake community Facebook group to deepen their engagement and share their experiences.  In closing, we encourage listeners to rate and review the podcast, helping to expand its reach and impact. Timestamps 00:00 - Introduction and addressing technical difficulties   02:30 - Welcoming Julianne Ponan   05:45 - Julianne’s personal experiences with allergies   10:20 - The risks of peanuts and nuts on airplanes   14:00 - Positive airline safety measures and Virgin Atlantic's efforts   18:25 - Educational programs for children on allergy awareness   23:15 - The importance of advocating for allergy safety   28:00 - Julianne’s TED talk on living with allergies   35:10 - The impact of mislabelling and importance of clear “free from” labels   40:50 - Awareness and inclusivity in the food industry   45:30 - Julianne’s efforts to improve safety on a global scale   50:15 - Closing remarks and call to action: joining the community and rating the podcast Links and Resources: Julianne Ponan Ted X Talk: https://youtu.be/ZqSHMsQt7Yo?si=9kKiL0NyCv06lCxe Juliane Ponan Website https://creativenaturesuperfoods.co.uk/ Website Link: https://ohforfoodssake.co.uk/ FB Link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ohforfoodsake LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/oh-for-food-s-sake/ You can follow us here on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oh_forfoodssake/ For industry consulting from Lucy, connect with her on Instagram or LinkedIn. Find her on Instagram or LinkedIn for further support with industry coaching and facilitation from Amy. See you next time!