Allergy scene has parents boycotting 'Peter Rabbit' film

Parikh added that there have been real-life cases in which school bullies have used food allergies to threaten and harm other children.

"This is very dangerous and anxiety-provoking, as deaths occur when food allergies are not taken seriously," she said.

Sony Pictures and the filmmakers of "Peter Rabbit" have released a statement in response.

"Food allergies are a serious issue. Our film should not have made light of Peter Rabbit's arch nemesis, Mr. McGregor, being allergic to blackberries, even in a cartoonish, slapstick way. We sincerely regret not being more aware and sensitive to this issue, and we truly apologize," the statement said.

The letter went on to encourage Sony to examine its portrayal of bullying in films geared toward children and to refrain from mocking food allergies in the future.

"We would welcome the opportunity to educate your company and the cast of the movie about the realities of food allergy so that they and your viewing audience can better understand and recognize the gravity of the disease. We would like to work together to promote positive attitudes and safe environments for those with disabilities such as food allergies," the letter said.

All families should be aware of how serious and potentially life-threatening food allergies can be, Parikh said.

"Precautions should be taken around people who suffer from food allergies, as it can cost them their life," she said.

"Emergency medications such as epinephrine should always be carried, and currently, a mainstay of treatment is avoidance of the food," she said. "It is important we fight the stigma around food allergies and not alienate or endanger those who are at risk."