GRAND ISLE, VT -- (Marketwire) -- 01/29/13 -- A recent survey of parents found that they believe there is not enough public awareness in schools and restaurants about nut allergies. Conducted by Vermont Nut Free Chocolates, a family-owned peanut and nut free gourmet chocolate company headquartered in Grand Isle, VT, 93 percent of the 1,530 parents within the Vermont Nut Free customer base surveyed have a child who suffers from a nut allergy. Of that 93 percent, 70 percent are allergic to both peanuts and tree nuts.

The survey also revealed that 40 percent of parents believe their child's quality of life is somewhat impacted and 27 percent felt their life is greatly impacted by having a nut allergy.

According to Mark Elvidge, CEO of Vermont Nut Free Chocolates and parent of a child with a nut allergy, "We have lived with our son's severe peanut allergy since he was 8 months old. The key is diligence and asking the right questions about food products that he consumes. When a child is very young, the parents have to always be there to ask these questions and assure that anyone charged with the care of their child knows the emergency plan and understands what to do should an accidental ingestion occur."

Other highlights from the study:

• 87 percent of parents feel there are not enough nut free products available
• 56 percent of parents find it hard to find nut free products for their children
• 52 percent think parents, teachers and school officials are somewhat understanding about nut allergies

"A great resource for food allergies in general is the Food Allergy and Analyphalaxis Network," says Elvidge. "There are also numerous food allergy support groups with an online presence that offer links, information and support, as well as some great books that can be found on Vermont Nut Free Chocolates' website."

About Vermont Nut Free Chocolates
Established in 1998, Vermont Nut Free Chocolates specializes in handmade gourmet treats that are safe for individuals with peanut and tree nut allergies. Its product line includes fudge, truffles, caramels, chocolate bars, granola bars, energy bars and novelty items. All products are made in small batches with only the finest nut free ingredients available. To learn more or order products, please visit www.VermontNutFree.com.

PDF Attachment Available: http://media.marketwire.com/attachments/201301/56452_VTNFC_Infographic_V3.pdf

Attachment Available: http://www2.marketwire.com/mw/frame_mw?attachid=2212665

Add to Digg Bookmark with del.icio.us Add to Newsvine