Chickie And Pete's Crab Fries Allergy
If you're a fan of Chickie and Pete's signature dish, you know that their Crab Fries are a must-try. Made with french fries, Old Bay seasoning, and a heaping helping of crab seasoning, these fries are the perfect blend of savory and spicy.
But if you or someone you know suffers from a crab allergy, you may be wondering if Chickie and Pete's Crab Fries are safe to eat. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the ingredients in these popular fries, and discuss whether or not they're safe for those with a crab allergy.
What Are Crab Fries?
Before we dive into the allergy concerns surrounding Chickie and Pete's Crab Fries, let's take a closer look at what this dish actually is. As we mentioned earlier, Crab Fries are a signature dish at Chickie and Pete's, a popular chain of sports bars in the United States.
While the recipe can vary slightly from location to location, the basic version of Crab Fries consists of french fries that have been seasoned with a blend of Old Bay seasoning and crab seasoning. The fries are served with a side of warm cheese sauce for dipping.
Crab seasoning typically includes a blend of spices like garlic, paprika, and onion powder, as well as some kind of crab extract or seasoning. While the exact blend of spices can vary, most crab seasoning blends are designed to mimic the taste of crab meat.
Are Crab Fries Safe For Those With A Crab Allergy?
Now that we know what Crab Fries are, let's address the question at hand: are they safe for those with a crab allergy? Unfortunately, the answer is no.
Because the seasoning used in Crab Fries is made with crab extract or flavoring, it can still cause an allergic reaction in those who are allergic to crustaceans like crab or lobster. Even if there are no visible chunks of crab meat in the dish itself, the seasoning can still contain enough crab extract to cause a reaction.
For those with a crab allergy, even a small amount of crab extract can be dangerous. Symptoms of an allergic reaction can range from mild (like hives or itching) to severe (like difficulty breathing or unconsciousness).
What To Do If You Have A Crab Allergy
If you have a crab allergy, it's important to be very cautious when eating out. Always inform your server of your allergy before ordering, and ask if any dishes you're interested in contain crab or crab flavoring.
In the case of Chickie and Pete's Crab Fries, it's best to avoid them altogether if you have a crab allergy. While the fries themselves may not contain visible crab pieces, the seasoning used can still be dangerous.
If you do accidentally consume something with crab in it and begin to experience symptoms of an allergic reaction, seek medical attention immediately. Your doctor or an emergency medical professional can administer epinephrine to help combat the reaction and prevent it from becoming life-threatening.
The Bottom Line
While Chickie and Pete's Crab Fries may be a fan favorite, they're unfortunately not safe for those with a crab allergy. If you or someone you know suffers from this allergy, it's important to be diligent about checking ingredient lists and informing restaurant staff of the allergy before eating.
Thankfully, there are plenty of other delicious dishes to try at Chickie and Pete's that don't contain crab seasoning. From classic bar snacks like mozzarella sticks and buffalo wings, to heartier options like crab cakes and Philly cheesesteaks, there's something on the menu for everyone.
Just remember to be mindful of your allergies, and always put your health and safety first.