Whataburger fan returns after 10 years of food allergies

After living for 10 years with food allergies, Aaron Powers from Houston, Texas, was finally cleared to start eating things he used to love. His first stop? Whataburger, of course. 

Aaron used to be able to eat whatever he wanted, and he always loved going to Whataburger with friends and family. But when he was in high school, Aaron started having allergic reactions and found out he’d developed allergies to several common foods. 

“It was a lot to digest, no pun intended,” Aaron said. “All of a sudden having to change everything, it's hard to deal with.” 

Eating became a solo activity, and Aaron says he didn’t dine out for 10 years. 

“I was terrified, to be honest,” he said. “I was afraid to try new things. I didn't let anybody cook for me.” 

Burgers are back on the menu 

This summer, Aaron went through some food challenges with an allergist to see if it was safe to start introducing things back into his diet. One by one, he started checking items off his allergy list. 

“It wasn't even over yet, and I was already looking at the Whataburger menu and allergy information,” Aaron said. “My mom was with me, and she was like, what do you wanna eat?” 

So they went straight from the doctor’s office to Whataburger, where Aaron ordered his old favorite: a Bacon & Cheese Whataburger on Texas Toast. He says it tastes just like he remembered—and a bit like freedom. 

“We both cried,” Aaron said. “It was great. I kind of took for granted simple experiences like eating with friends and family. It’s just exciting to be able to do that again.”