When The Northwestern Wildcats host the Northern Illinois Huskies on September 6, 2014, there will be NO PEANUTS for sale. Ryan Field will be going "peanut-free" for the Wildcats' first three home football games this fall. Here's why.

Getty Images
Getty Images
loading...

According the ESPN, The Wildcats will not serve peanuts or any peanut products to allow individuals with severe peanut allergies to have to the opportunity to attend a "peanut-free" sporting event.

Northwestern will not serve peanuts at the Wildcats' nonconference football games against Cal (Aug. 30), Northern Illinois (Sept. 6) and Western Illinois (Sept. 20).

Getty Images
Getty Images
loading...

The idea to hold a "peanut-free" game started last year with a simple request by a concerned parent. So on Oct. 19, 2003, Northwestern hosted Minnesota in what was the first college football game that was entirely peanut-free. Fans responded favorably to the decision.

Getty Images
Getty Images
loading...

After the game, Northwestern was flooded with e-mails and calls, thanking the school for providing the opportunity for individuals with the potentially fatal allergy to attend a sporting event.

However, Mr. Peanut is not happy about "The Call" from the officials.

Getty Images
Getty Images
loading...

There are approximately 3 million people, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, that have potentially fatal allergy reactions to peanuts.Regardless of your peanut views, the game between NIU and Northwestern will be a blast.

 

More From Rockford's New Country Q98.5