Food Allergies in France
French cuisine relies heavily on butter, cream, and wheat. This guide helps you understand the risks and prepare before ordering food in France.
Informational guide only. Always confirm with restaurant staff.
Why French food can be risky for allergies
- •Butter and cream are used in most dishes
- •Wheat is in bread, pastries, and sauces
- •Mustard is a common ingredient often unlisted
- •Eggs appear in many classic dishes and sauces
- •Cross-contact from shared butter and cooking surfaces
Common hidden allergens in French cuisine
French phrases for communicating allergies
I have a food allergy:
- •J'ai une allergie alimentaire
I cannot eat:
- •• Dairy: produits laitiers
- •• Butter: beurre
- •• Cream: crème
- •• Gluten: gluten
- •• Eggs: œufs
- •• Mustard: moutarde
- •• Shellfish: fruits de mer
- •• Nuts: noix / fruits à coque
Without:
- •Sans... + [ingredient name]
How to reduce allergy risk in France
- 1
Scan menus before ordering to identify high-risk dishes
- 2
Use a translated allergy card in French
- 3
Ask about butter, cream, and mustard specifically
- 4
Request dishes prepared without butter if needed
Lower-risk French dish options
Generally simpler dishes (always confirm):
- •Grilled meat without sauce (viande grillée)
- •Steamed vegetables
- •Plain rice
- •Fresh fruit
- •Simple green salad (confirm no mustard dressing)
What this guide helps with — and what it doesn't
Helps with:
- ✓Understanding common allergen sources in French food
- ✓Knowing what questions to ask
- ✓Preparing translated allergy cards
Does not replace:
- ⚠Direct confirmation from restaurant staff
- ⚠Knowledge of specific restaurant practices
- ⚠Medical advice or emergency planning
Always carry your medication and confirm ingredients with staff.
Prepare before you travel to France.