How To Say Multiple Food Allergies In Japanese: Your Essential Guide

Ms. Antonia Skiles I 31 Jul 2025

Venturing to a new country can feel like a grand adventure, can't it? Yet, for folks with food allergies, there's often a little extra worry mixed in, especially when you're thinking about a place like Japan. Getting your message across clearly about what you can and cannot eat is, well, pretty important, don't you think? It's not just about comfort; it's truly about staying safe while you explore.

Communicating something as important as food allergies in a language you're not fully familiar with can seem like a big hurdle. You want to make sure your words are understood, so the people helping you can really grasp your needs. This is especially true when you have more than one food sensitivity, as that just adds a layer of complexity to the conversation, more or less.

This guide aims to make that process a whole lot simpler. We're going to talk about practical ways to express your food allergies in Japanese, covering everything from basic phrases to using helpful tools. By the end, you'll feel much more ready to enjoy Japan's wonderful food scene with peace of mind, seriously.

General Allergy Phrases to Know
- Basic Expressions for Allergies
- Getting the Pronunciation Right
Naming Specific Allergens
- Common Allergy Words
- Combining Multiple Allergies
Explaining Severity and Cross-Contamination
- Phrases for Serious Reactions
- Asking About Ingredients
The Allergy Card: Your Best Friend
Dining Out Strategies in Japan
Beyond Restaurants: Snacks and Stores
- Reading Food Labels
- Convenience Store Tips
Frequently Asked Questions

General Allergy Phrases to Know

Basic Expressions for Allergies

When you're trying to convey something important, the simpler the message, the better, honestly. For food allergies, starting with a general statement is a good first step. You want to express that you have a food sensitivity, which is a pretty common thing to need to say. The most straightforward way to begin is by stating you have an allergy.

You might say: 「アレルギーがあります。」 (Arerugī ga arimasu.) This means, "I have an allergy." It's a good general statement, and people typically understand the seriousness behind it. Sometimes, people might just say this and then point to an allergy card, which is a really effective way to communicate, as a matter of fact.

Another phrase that can be useful is: 「食物アレルギーがあります。」 (Shokumotsu arerugī ga arimasu.) This translates to "I have a food allergy." Adding "shokumotsu" (food) makes it a bit more specific, so it's clear you're talking about food and not, say, a pollen allergy. This helps avoid any confusion, and it's quite helpful.

When you're asking if something contains an allergen, you can use: 「～は入っていますか？」 (～ wa haitte imasu ka?) This means "Does it contain ~?" You just put the allergen word in the blank. For example, if you're asking about eggs, you'd say: 「卵は入っていますか？」 (Tamago wa haitte imasu ka?), which is quite useful for quick checks.

Getting the Pronunciation Right

Saying words correctly is pretty important, wouldn't you agree? Even a slight mispronunciation can sometimes change the meaning or make it harder for someone to understand you. Japanese pronunciation is generally phonetic, meaning words are pronounced as they are written, which is a bit of a relief.

For 「アレルギー」 (arerugī), make sure to emphasize the "ru" sound. It's not "a-ler-gy" like in English, but more like "ah-reh-roo-gee," with a slightly longer "ee" sound at the end. Practicing this a few times can really help, you know.

The sounds are typically consistent, so once you get the hang of the basic Japanese vowels (a, i, u, e, o) and consonant combinations, you're more or less set. Listening to native speakers say these phrases can be incredibly helpful. There are many online resources where you can hear Japanese words spoken, which is really quite good for practice.

Don't be afraid to speak slowly and clearly. People appreciate the effort, and it gives them a better chance to understand what you're trying to express. Sometimes, just a little bit of extra care in how you say things makes all the difference, honestly.

Naming Specific Allergens

Common Allergy Words

Knowing the specific words for common allergens is absolutely key. It allows you to pinpoint exactly what you need to avoid, which is pretty vital for your safety. Here are some of the most frequently encountered food allergens and their Japanese equivalents:

Egg: 卵 (tamago)
Milk/Dairy: 牛乳 (gyūnyū) or 乳製品 (nyūseihin - dairy products)
Wheat: 小麦 (komugi)
Peanut: 落花生 (rakkasei) or ピーナッツ (pīnattsu - often used for peanuts in general)
Soy/Soybeans: 大豆 (daizu)
Buckwheat: そば (soba)
Crab: かに (kani)
Shrimp: えび (ebi)
Fish: 魚 (sakana)
Shellfish: 貝 (kai - general term for shellfish)
Nut: ナッツ (nattsu - general term for nuts) or 木の実 (kinomi - tree nuts)

It's a good idea to write these down, maybe even on a small card you carry, just in case you forget. Having them readily available can save you a lot of trouble, and it's quite practical, really.

For something like "nut," 「ナッツ」 (nattsu) is pretty common, but if you have a specific tree nut allergy, like almonds or walnuts, you might want to learn those specific terms too. For example, Almond is 「アーモンド」 (āmondo), and Walnut is 「くるみ」 (kurumi). Knowing these specifics can be very helpful, you know, especially for those with very particular sensitivities.

Combining Multiple Allergies

When you have several allergies, putting them all together in one sentence can feel a bit daunting. The good news is, Japanese grammar allows for relatively straightforward combinations. You can list them using the particle 「と」 (to), which means "and." So, it's almost like saying "A and B and C."

For example, if you are allergic to eggs and milk, you would say: 「卵と牛乳にアレルギーがあります。」 (Tamago to gyūnyū ni arerugī ga arimasu.) This translates to "I have an allergy to eggs and milk." The 「に」 (ni) particle here indicates the object of the allergy, which is pretty standard.

If you have three or more allergies, you just keep adding them with 「と」. For instance, for eggs, milk, and wheat: 「卵と牛乳と小麦にアレルギーがあります。」 (Tamago to gyūnyū to komugi ni arerugī ga arimasu.) This way, you can clearly state all your specific sensitivities, which is really important.

Alternatively, especially if you have many allergies, simply listing them out and then saying 「これらにアレルギーがあります。」 (Kore-ra ni arerugī ga arimasu - I have allergies to these) while pointing to your list or allergy card can be very effective. This avoids a long, potentially confusing spoken sentence, and it's a very practical approach, actually.

Explaining Severity and Cross-Contamination

Phrases for Serious Reactions

It's not just about naming the allergen; sometimes, you need to convey how serious your reaction can be. This is a pretty vital piece of information for food preparers. If even a tiny amount can cause a severe reaction, you need to make that clear, you know?

To express a severe reaction, you can say: 「重いアレルギーです。」 (Omoi arerugī desu.) This means "It's a severe allergy." This phrase gets the point across that it's not just a mild discomfort, but something more serious. It really helps staff understand the gravity of the situation.

You might also add: 「食べると危険です。」 (Taberu to kiken desu.) This translates to "It's dangerous if I eat it." This phrase directly communicates the risk involved, which is pretty straightforward. Combining these can be quite powerful, so you could say, 「卵と牛乳に重いアレルギーがあります。食べると危険です。」 (Tamago to gyūnyū ni omoi arerugī ga arimasu. Taberu to kiken desu.)

For those with very severe, life-threatening allergies, you might need to mention anaphylaxis. The Japanese term is 「アナフィラキシー」 (anafirakishī). You could say: 「アナフィラキシーを起こす可能性があります。」 (Anafirakishī o okosu kanōsei ga arimasu.) This means "There's a possibility of anaphylaxis." This is a bit more advanced, but it's a good phrase to have ready if your allergy is that serious, you know, just in case.

Asking About Ingredients

Sometimes, the best way to be safe is to directly ask about all the ingredients in a dish. This is especially true for complex dishes or sauces where allergens might be hidden. It's a bit like being a detective for your food, actually.

To ask about specific ingredients, you can use: 「～は入っていませんか？」 (～ wa haitte imasen ka?) This means "Does it *not* contain ~?" This phrasing can sometimes be more effective as it directly asks for the absence of something. For example, 「ピーナッツは入っていませんか？」 (Pīnattsu wa haitte imasen ka?) means "Does it not contain peanuts?"

If you want to be very thorough, you might ask: 「すべての材料を教えていただけますか？」 (Subete no zairyō o oshiete itadakemasu ka?) This means "Could you please tell me all the ingredients?" This is a very polite way to ask for a full list, which is often necessary for complex allergies, and it's quite useful.

For cross-contamination concerns, you might say: 「同じ調理器具を使っていますか？」 (Onaji chōri kigu o tsukatte imasu ka?) This asks, "Are the same cooking utensils used?" This is a crucial question for people with severe sensitivities where even traces can cause a reaction. It's a pretty important detail to clarify, really.

You could also say: 「アレルギー物質が混ざらないようにできますか？」 (Arerugī busshitsu ga mazaranai yō ni dekimasu ka?) This means, "Can you make sure allergens don't mix in?" This directly addresses the cross-contamination issue and asks for precautions. It's a bit of a longer phrase, but it gets the point across very clearly, so it's worth learning.

The Allergy Card: Your Best Friend

What is an Allergy Card?

An allergy card, sometimes called a chef card or dining card, is a small, portable card that lists your specific food allergies in Japanese. It's a bit like having a tiny, personal translator with you at all times. These cards are incredibly helpful because they provide clear, written information that restaurant staff can read and understand without a language barrier, which is really quite a relief.

Typically, these cards include your name, a polite explanation of your allergies, a list of specific ingredients to avoid, and a request for careful preparation to prevent cross-contamination. Some even include a note about what to do in case of a reaction, which is pretty thorough. They are a universal tool for travelers with dietary restrictions, and they are very effective, you know.

The beauty of an allergy card is that it leaves no room for misinterpretation due to pronunciation or misunderstanding. The information is right there, in writing, for anyone to see. This means kitchen staff can read it directly, ensuring they prepare your meal safely. It's a simple idea, but it makes a huge difference, honestly.

How to Get or Make One

Getting an allergy card for your trip to Japan is easier than you might think. Many online services specialize in creating these cards for various languages. You simply input your allergies, and they generate a printable card for you. This is a pretty convenient option, as a matter of fact.

Alternatively, you can create your own. You'd want to use a reliable translation service or ask a native Japanese speaker to help you write it out. Make sure the Japanese is natural and polite. Include phrases like "すみませんが、私は..." (Sumimasen ga, watashi wa... - Excuse me, but I...) to start, and "ありがとうございます" (Arigatō gozaimasu - Thank you very much) at the end. This shows respect, which is quite important in Japanese culture.

When making your own, use clear, large font, and consider printing it on sturdy paper or laminating it so it holds up during your travels. Having a few copies is also a good idea, just in case one gets lost or damaged. It's always better to be prepared, right?

You can find templates online that guide you on what information to include. A good card will clearly list each allergen, and perhaps even mention common derivatives or hidden sources. For example, not just "wheat," but also "flour, bread crumbs, soy sauce (if it contains wheat)." This level of detail is very helpful, you know, for avoiding accidental exposure.

Using Your Card Effectively

Once you have your allergy card, knowing how and when to use it is key. The best time to present it is usually right after you're seated at a restaurant or when you first speak to the server. Hand it to them directly and politely say, 「アレルギーがあります。」 (Arerugī ga arimasu.)

Allow them time to read it carefully. They might take it to the kitchen to show the chef, which is a very good sign. Be patient; they are trying to help you. Sometimes, they might come back with questions, so be ready to clarify if needed. It's a bit of a back-and-forth sometimes, but it's for your safety.

Always confirm that they understand. You can ask, 「大丈夫ですか？」 (Daijōbu desu ka? - Is it okay/understood?) after they've read it. If they seem unsure, don't hesitate to politely re-explain or point to specific parts of the card. Clear communication is always the goal, you know.

Even with a card, it's a good idea to verbally mention your most severe allergies. For example, if you have a severe peanut allergy, you might say 「落花生に重いアレルギーがあります。」 (Rakkasei ni omoi arerugī ga arimasu.) while presenting the card. This reinforces the message and ensures it gets their immediate attention, which is pretty important.

Dining Out Strategies in Japan

Researching Restaurants Beforehand

A little bit of planning can go a very long way, especially when you're dining out with allergies. Before you even leave your accommodation, try to do some research on restaurants in the area you plan to visit. Some restaurants, particularly in larger cities or tourist-heavy spots, are becoming more accustomed to handling food allergies, which is great, actually.

Look for restaurants that explicitly mention allergy-friendly options on their websites or menus. Websites like HappyCow for vegan/vegetarian options sometimes list allergy notes, and there are specific allergy-focused dining guides for Japan. Reading reviews from other travelers with allergies can also provide valuable insights, which is pretty helpful.

Consider calling the restaurant ahead of time, if possible. While this might be challenging due to language barriers, it gives you a chance to discuss your allergies directly with staff who might have more time to understand. You could even have a Japanese-speaking friend or hotel concierge make the call for you. This kind of preparation can save you a lot of stress, you know.

When you call, you might ask: 「アレルギー対応は可能ですか？」 (Arerugī taiō wa kanō desu ka?) This means "Is allergy accommodation possible?" This gets straight to the point and helps you figure out if they can meet your needs before you even arrive, which is pretty efficient.

Talking with Restaurant Staff

Once you're at the restaurant, your interaction with the staff is crucial. Always approach them with politeness and a clear, calm demeanor. Remember, they are trying to help you, and a respectful attitude goes a long way. This is a pretty important aspect of Japanese etiquette, really.

Hand over your allergy card as soon as you can, perhaps when they give you the menu. Make eye contact and speak slowly. If they seem confused, point to the specific allergens on your card. Sometimes, repeating the key words slowly can help them process the information, you know.

Don't be afraid to ask for a specific staff member who might be more knowledgeable about ingredients, such as the chef or a manager. You can ask: 「シェフに確認していただけますか？」 (Shefu ni kakunin shite itadakemasu ka?) This means "Could you please confirm with the chef?" This ensures your message reaches the person directly responsible for food preparation, which is absolutely vital.

If you feel like your message isn't getting through, or if they seem unsure, it's perfectly okay to politely choose another restaurant. Your safety is the most important thing, after all. It's better to be safe than sorry, which is a pretty good rule to live by, frankly.

Hidden Allergens to Watch Out For

Even with clear communication, some dishes in Japan can contain unexpected allergens. This is where a bit of cultural food knowledge comes in handy. For instance, many traditional Japanese dishes use soy sauce, which often contains wheat. Dashi (broth) often contains fish or shellfish, which is pretty common.

Things like tempura (fried foods) are often cooked in shared oil, which can lead to cross-contamination if other items containing your allergen were fried in the same oil. Similarly, noodle dishes like ramen or udon might have broths or toppings that contain various allergens. It's a bit of a maze sometimes, honestly.

Be cautious with sauces, dressings, and marinades, as these are common hiding spots for allergens like dairy, soy, or nuts. If a dish looks simple, it might still have a complex underlying flavor base. Always ask if you're unsure, or stick to very plain, grilled items where you can clearly see the ingredients. This is a very safe approach, you know.

For example, if you have a wheat allergy, remember to ask about soy sauce: 「醤油に小麦は入っていますか？」 (Shōyu ni komugi wa haitte imasu ka?) This is a pretty specific question but very important for those with wheat sensitivities. Also, be aware that many sweets and snacks might contain eggs or dairy, even if they don't seem like it at first glance, so be careful.

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