Family Calls for Allergy Management Ratings After Child's Death

Why it matters locally: While there isn't specific legislation currently under consideration in Mississippi, a national movement for allergy management ratings could influence future food safety discussions and practices for businesses across the state.

The family of 12-year-old Mia St Hilaire is advocating for a system to rate food establishments on their allergy management practices. Mia St Hilaire died after experiencing anaphylactic shock following the consumption of a milkshake. She had a tree nut allergy. Her family now urges businesses to implement clearer protocols for allergen handling. They believe a standardized rating system could provide consumers with essential information regarding allergy safety at various venues. This call follows Mia's death, which occurred after she drank a milkshake containing an allergen she was sensitive to. Her allergic reaction escalated to anaphylactic shock, proving fatal.