Traveling with Food Allergies in Vietnam: What You Need to Know

Traveling through Vietnam is an incredible food adventure, but for those with allergies or dietary restrictions, it can be challenging. While most locals understand what allergies are, some smaller or busier vendors simply don’t have the time or patience to handle special orders that require changing ingredients to suit a specific dietary restriction or allergy.

The most common ingredients to watch out for in Vietnam are peanuts, seafood and shellfish, soy, and eggs. These are used widely across sauces, toppings, and street food dishes. Even when they aren’t visible, they can appear in broths, marinades, or dipping sauces, so travelers with these allergies should take extra care when eating out.

In Hanoi especially, food often comes the way it comes. In Vietnam in general, there isn’t much of a culture of customizing orders, and it’s not that vendors aren’t helpful—it’s simply that certain dishes are traditionally made a specific way and that’s how they’re served. Even if you ask to leave something out, it may not always happen as expected, and you may end up with what everyone else gets.

That’s why travelers with allergies or strict diets should carry a translation card explaining what they can and can’t eat. To make that easier, we’ve created a collection of Allergy and Dietary Restriction Cards you can download and use during your travels in Vietnam. They help communicate clearly and safely when ordering food on the street.

If you’re unsure about what’s in the food, it’s best to avoid eating anything that might contain ingredients you’re allergic to, especially if cross-contamination is a risk to you.

ATTENTION:

If you experience a severe allergic reaction while in Vietnam, you should immediately DIAL 115 to reach emergency medical services. This is the nationwide number for ambulance assistance.