Last year, it was a gluten-free cake. Now, Starbucks is partnering with Dr. Lucy’s Cookies to offer its customers a sweet treat that’s vegan—plus free of other common allergens including wheat, peanuts, and tree nuts.

While positive and negative opinions abound about the coffee giant, Starbucks’ move to offer a snack that’s free of animal products is a good thing for two reasons: Not only does it provide another option for those with special diets, but it introduces said diets more into the mainstream. And since eating less meat and dairy in favor of plant-based foods is better for the environment, here’s hoping the cookie offering will inspire coffee drinkers across the country to eat more vegan meals and snacks.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

If your child has food allergies, or special dietary needs, you can still visit friends and family and share the joy of the holiday season. But when food is involved (and when isn’t it?) it’s always best to come prepared. So here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Call ahead to explain your child’s allergies and offer to bring a safe dish.

• Ask to serve your child first to make sure that the utensils and foods are not cross contaminated.

• Remind loved ones not to fuss over what your child is eating. He or she wants to be part of the crowd and not singled out because of his differences.

• If the host seems not to “get it”, feed your child at home and bring dessert or a snack.

• Keep an eye out for candy dishes and nut bowls. If your child is very young, ask if they can be moved out of the little one’s reach.

• Desserts in particular are a common cause of allergic reactions as they are often cross contaminated with peanuts or nuts and most will contain some of the top nine allergens. So, make a special holiday dessert that your child will love and bring enough to share so that she feels part of the celebration.

–Gina Clowes is the Founder of AllergyMoms.com and author of One of the Gang: Nurturing the Souls of Children with Food Allergies