There's no direct relationship between a dairy allergy and an allergy to a
chocolate that is certified to be dairy free. The only indirect
relationship would be the fact that the child is atopic and therefore, via
his/her genetic heritage, might be allergic to more than one food. But
there's no guarantee.

Our son Josh is pretty much a chocoholic. But he's also anaphylactically
allergic to milk, eggs, and nuts. Perhaps because he is deprived so many
other foods, he cherishes even more the special treat of a nut-free pareve
chocolate bar or glass of cocoa rice milk.

As "unnecessary" as chocolate may seem, it is very hard to deny such a
special treat to a child who is allergic to other foods.

It does seem worth it to try chocolate. I'd start with cocoa powder that is
certified Kosher Pareve, and then try a chocolate that is also certified
Kosher Pareve.

Without tests and challenges for each ingredient, it's very difficult to
tell definitively what a reaction is to if the child came in contact with a
prepared food consisting of multiple ingredients. All should be suspect
unless proven otherwise.

If there's any doubt about the severity of a reaction any ingredient, first
have each tested (both skin tested and then orally challenged) at a medical
facility that can handle a severe reaction.
Mark Feblowitz                  GTE Laboratories Incorporated
[log in to unmask]              40 Sylvan Road, Waltham, MA 02154-1120