Dining service offers healthy, allergen-free Thanksgiving feast

Stations across Reber-Thomas Dining Hall served up traditional holiday favorites on Tuesday, Nov. 19, during the annual Thanksgiving dinner arranged by Sodexo, Liberty University’s dining services provider. The award-winning Simple Servings platform featured an entire Thanksgiving meal — including turkey, ham, stuffing, sweet potatoes, and green beans — prepared without seven of the eight most common allergens.

“We wanted to include everyone in this Thanksgiving meal, regardless of their dietary restrictions,” said Julia Pfiefer, Sodexo’s area marketing manager.

She added that many students also choose Simple Servings meals because they are a healthier option, not necessarily for allergy reasons. Many student athletes frequent the platform.

Food offered at Simple Servings generally does not contain as much sodium from sauces as other options and focuses more on simplicity, as its name suggests.

Robin Quay, Sodexo’s registered dietitian for Liberty, works with the dining team to ensure all of Liberty’s food services offer healthy options.

Quay is available to discuss dietary concerns or nutritional needs with students and provides many quality online resources, including a blog and Dietitian Picks, which highlight the most nutrient-dense offerings at each of Liberty’s dining locations. She also offers a cookbook of healthy recipes that can be prepared using only standard residence hall appliances — a microwave and refrigerator.

Another holiday meal will be served on Dec. 3, with a lineup of allergen-free choices available for students.

• View some allergen-free holiday meal recipe ideas from Sodexo.