Hiya Kristina,
Welcome to planDisney and thank you for bringing a question about one of my favorite topics, dining at Walt Disney World Resort! Navigating the theme parks with your daughter’s food sensitivity must be challenging sometimes, but hopefully we can help prepare you for your visit.
Kristina, I’m glad you pointed out the popcorn. Yes, the iconic Disney snack uses a combination of coconut oil and canola oil. Now, despite my not-so-secret desire to have the recipes of every single snack and meal from Walt Disney World sent to my inbox, Cast Members still aren’t able to share that with me. The recipes and individual snack offerings change quite frequently, so it would be a nightmare to keep updated. But no worries, you don’t have to guess whether something will be good for your daughter. Every Disney dining location and snack cart has an ingredient binder that details every ingredient used in the food items. So let’s say you pop into
Aloha Isle and want to pick up a DOLE Whip (which, in my research, may have trace amounts of coconut oil), you can ask the Cast Member for the ingredient binder before purchasing. You can also ask for alternatives on the menu that might not include coconut oil or products, which they are really good at being able to provide. If you are dining at a table service restaurant, ask to speak to the
chef. They can help suggest modifications and even share information about items that you didn’t think included coconut but do.
I know this wasn’t a comprehensive list, Kristina, but I hope this helps give you some guidance for your trip. One of my fellow panelists, super-mom
Emille, has a child with a coconut allergy, so she is an amazing resource. If you want specific suggestions on snacks or items to try that her son loves, you can always reach out to her specifically. She may know of some incredible snacks that are sure to be loved by your Mouseketeer! I really hope that you have an incredible day!
Happy Planning,
Ashley F.