Campus Dining with Food Allergies

Jan 25, 2019 • Ellie J.

Having food allergies is no easy thing.  Especially at college (or so it would seem).  For those with food allergies, the thought of having to eat campus food may freak you out.  See, I thought the same thing.  But I’ve had no issues with my meal plan and allergies here at Liberty!

Let me tell you a little bit of my story.  I am allergic to gluten and dairy.  I have what is called ‘Non-Celiac Gluten Intolerance’ and ‘Lactose Intolerance.’  I used to eat a lot of bread, cheese, and milk…but when I found out last year that I was allergic to most of my diet, I had to start changing what I was eating. 

I had heard of the GIO Meal Plan (Gluten Intolerance Options Program), which only allows you to eat meals that are gluten-free (with no extra cost!).  Some friends had said great things about it, so I planned a meeting with the Campus Dietitian and got a doctor’s note.  The Campus Dietitian (and the entire staff) is there to help students navigate their diets on campus and serve them the best way that they can.  I voiced my worries to the dietitian, and she was able to calm my fears and show me all the options I would still have.  She gave me a paper that listed each food location on campus and what I could eat there (I still refer to this paper, it’s very helpful!).

This is how the GIO meal plan works (or any meal plan specific to your allergy): Instead of getting a chicken sandwich with French fries at Chick-Fil-A, the GIO plan allows you to get the grilled nuggets and fries!  I can still eat anywhere on campus, but my options look a little bit different. 

Here’s the most important thing: Liberty’s Campus Dietitian and the rest of the team is here to help and serve you.  The options that Liberty gives those with food allergies is incredible!  I didn’t know if I would have any options when I was diagnosed, but eating on campus has significantly improved and I feel so much better!

Aside from the meal plan, here are some other tips for those with allergies:

1. Bring Snacks with You! – Pick out some of your favorite to-go snacks to bring with you each day!  Having a quick snack that I can eat is the perfect pick-me-up! I usually have a bag of gluten-free pretzels, an apple sauce, or a granola bar!
2. Communicate Your Allergies with Friends/Roommates – For some, their food allergies are a lot more serious than mine.  Don’t be embarrassed to communicate your food allergies to your friends and roommates, especially if they are cooking for you or want to go out to eat.  My friends and roommates have been so compassionate and understanding when it comes to my allergies!  It makes life so much easier when you’ve got people who are concerned for you and have your back!
3. Consider your Allergies when Choosing a Dorm – Because I am only allergic to gluten and dairy, it is decently easy for me to find food that I can eat.  Other people may have numerous food allergies, which causes the search for food a bit more difficult.  Choosing a dorm that has a full kitchen will allow you to make meals that fit your needs. Of course, the Campus Dietitian will do their best, but you may want to consider living in a dorm with a kitchen, like East Campus or the Quads.

Finding out I had food allergies wasn’t easy, but the Campus Dietitian and the team has made it so easy and stress-free to eat on campus!  I am very thankful for the variety of dining options that Liberty has and that I can easily grab something that works for me.    

Talk Soon,

Ellie