Inclusive events start with making everyone feel welcome — and that includes students with food allergies. Food allergies affect roughly 1 in 10 adults, meaning almost every event you host will likely include someone navigating dietary restrictions. With a little planning, you can create a space where all students can participate fully.

These strategies are designed to be low-cost and realistic for student organizations and campus groups.

Allergy-Friendly Food Options

Aim to include at least a few options free from the Top 9 allergens — wheat, milk, soy, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, and sesame. Good options to consider include:

• Sweet Options: Partake Foods cookies, Allergy Smart mini cookie pouches, MadeGood Granola Minis, Yum Earth Fruit Snacks, or fruit leather
• Savory Options: SkinnyPop individual 0.5oz popcorn bags, Super Seedz snacks, certified gluten free tortilla chips, plain or lightly salted rice or corn cakes
• Fresh produce: Sliced apples, bananas, carrots, cucumber, summer squash, or celery; also consider berries and cherry tomatoes
• Allergen-friendly spreads: Seed butters, guacamole, chickpea spreads, vegan cream cheese spreads, fruit spreads, dairy-free ranch

Setting Up Safely

• Separate allergy-free items from other foods. Leave at least three feet between allergy-free snacks and standard snacks. 
• Use clear signs letting guests know which items are allergy-free and that ingredient labels are available, or better yet – post the labels themselves.
• If using pre-packaged items, aim for individually wrapped food. Leave it in the original packaging or save the bulk exterior packaging to make sure the allergy information is available.
• Avoid communal snack bowls or shared serving utensils. At beverage stations, use individual wooden stir sticks and make disposal readily available.
• When serving tongs or spoons are necessary, post a sign near the food, such as:
  • Each item has its own serving utensil — please use it and put it back. Switching utensils between dishes can cause serious problems for guests with food allergies. Using the utensil provided with each item helps keep food safe for everyone.

Events with RSVPs

When guests register in advance:

• Include an open-ended dietary question on your form: Do you have any food allergies or dietary needs we should know about when planning food?
• Review answers well before the event so you have time to act.
  • If you can accommodate a need, set that item aside at the event so it doesn’t get taken or contaminated before the guest arrives.
  • If you can’t fully accommodate a need, reach out ahead of time so the guest can plan accordingly. Knowing in advance is far better than finding out at the event.

Why It Matters

For students with food allergies, navigating campus social life can feel stressful or isolating — especially when food is central to an event. Simple, thoughtful accommodations send the clear message that everyone belongs here.