Allergy Summit Highlights
FAACT’s Allergy Summit: Advancing Knowledge, Amplifying Voices
What happens when leading medical experts, innovators, social media experts, and the food allergy community unite with a shared mission to make a meaningful impact in the lives of people living with food allergies? Pure brilliance. Pure community.
A record-breaking 150 attendees from 28 states and 3 countries gathered at the Hyatt Lodge and Conference Center in Oak Brook, Illinois, for FAACT’s Allergy Summit.
The summit offered two thoughtfully curated topic tracks for attendees. The Disease Management track explored food allergies and related conditions, including anaphylaxis, asthma, eosinophilic disorders, Food Protein-Induced Enterocolitis Syndrome (FPIES), Celiac disease, mast cell and systemic mastocytosis, and Alpha-Gal Syndrome. The Social Media track was tailored for influencers, bloggers, and professionals eager to harness digital platforms to elevate awareness and education in the allergy space.
Attendees began arriving Thursday evening, greeted by warm conversations and connections at the hotel’s restaurant and bar. The informal meet-up set the tone for the days ahead. New friendships were formed, longtime colleagues embraced, and the shared passion for improving life with food allergies was palpable from the start. The Hyatt Lodge even provided a dedicated fryer for FAACT attendees, who rarely get to enjoy allergen-friendly french fries cooked separately in vegetable oil!
Each participant received a generous welcome bag filled with products from Allergy Expo exhibitors and summit sponsors. It was a tangible reflection of the community’s collaboration and of our sponsors' commitment to advancing education, awareness, and innovation in allergy care.
There were joint sessions led by world-renowned allergists and clinicians. Discussions explored shared decision-making, the latest advances in allergy research, and strategies for managing psychosocial challenges—underscoring the summit’s blend of science, empathy, and patient-centered care. Attendees then moved fluidly between the two tracks, eager to absorb insights from both the clinical and communication perspectives. The Disease Management track delved into essential topics such as tools to help patients and caregivers manage allergy-related stress and trauma, advancements in biologic therapies, and nutritional needs plus supplements. The Social Media track examined digital trends, best practices, creator monetization, and responsible sharing of evidence-based content. FAACT provided 14.0 continuing education hours to healthcare providers.
Company-sponsored breakfasts, lunches, happy hours, and dinners were provided each day - all were free from the Top 9 allergens (as well as gluten, seeds, and beef). Over 1,000 buffet style meals were provided throughout the weekend. Beloved allergy-friendly brands played a starring role in making those meals memorable. The Pink Bakery delighted attendees with their signature pancake, banana bread, and brownie mixes baked by Chef John. Red Plate Foods’ muffins, granola, cookies, and cupcakes quickly became the talk of the weekend (and a favorite midnight snack for many!). And SKINNYPOP original popcorn added the perfect crunchy complement to every conversation.
Dr. Zachary Rubin, whose engaging session on building social media influence captivated attendees, inspired everyone with a timeless reminder from Mark Twain:
“The two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why.”
At the sold-out Allergy Expo, attendees explored innovative brands, cutting-edge products, and the latest allergy-safe solutions. The Expo buzzed with energy as participants engaged in personal conversations with vendors, exchanged ideas, and discovered products designed to make life safer and more inclusive for individuals managing allergies.
As the summit came to a close, one message resonated above all: community and knowledge are our greatest tools for change. Every conversation, shared meal, and educational session reflected the heart of this event—connection. Together, we are not only advancing research and awareness but also strengthening a community built on compassion, collaboration, and the belief that every individual deserves a safe and inclusive world.
FAACT’s Allergy Summit was more than an event—it was a movement. A place where partnerships blossom, ideas spark, and lives are touched in ways that ripple far beyond the conference walls.
Watch some of the highlights from our sponsors!
FAACT’s Food Allergy Summit Recap – Sponsored by Genentech
FAACT’s Food Allergy Summit Recap – Sponsored by ARS Pharma
