CNN reports that more and more children are being bullied about their food allergies. A study at New York’s Mount Sinai Hospital surveyed children ages 8 to 17 and the children’s parents. They found bullying ranges from plain ol’ teasing to kids throwing allergens at their classmates, which can be life-threatening.

With one in twelve children in the US suffering from food allergies, with higher rates among people of color, doctors say parents should be concerned. Interestingly, the study found that when parents were aware of the bullying, children weren’t upset by it. Researchers suggest parents keep up with their kids to find out what’s going on at school. They warn that because kids with food allergies don’t look physically sick right away, it’s easy for other parents (and children) to dismiss them as being overprotective. This study proves once again kids are nothing if not creative when it comes to their cruelty.

Do your kids get teased for having food allergies?

Words: Desiree Browne