Do not rely on the picture or dish name alone. Ask about broth, sauce, cooking fat, egg, dairy, and meat garnish. Buddhist vegetarian restaurants can be useful, but ingredients and kitchen practices still vary.
- 我吃素 — I eat vegetarian food
- 不要肉 — no meat
- 不要鸡蛋 — no egg
- 不要牛奶 — no milk
Before travel, discuss your personal plan and medicines with your clinician. Carry your emergency medicines in an accessible place, bring safe snacks, and know where you would seek urgent care.
Write every allergen and the need to avoid cross-contact in clear Simplified Chinese. Give the card to the server and ask that the cook or manager read it. Confirm again before eating.
- Name the exact allergen, not only the type of diet
- Ask about broth, sauces, shared oil, utensils, and preparation surfaces
- Keep a copy on your phone and a printed copy
- Choose another meal if staff cannot confirm the ingredients or process
Translation errors, regional wording, hidden ingredients, and shared kitchens can still create risk. Even direct confirmation cannot guarantee an allergen-free meal. A local guide or trusted bilingual person may improve communication, but cannot replace your medical plan or remove cross-contact risk.
Practical food guidance for travelers.
Source and review
Last reviewed:
A China-based planner reads every request.