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Advocating for inclusive, safe dining for college students with food restrictions
GFF College Dining Survey Responses
Indiana University
Bloomington
Indiana
Survey Date:
Oct 10, 2022
Survey 1 of 1
Student:
Sophomore
With:
Celiac Disease
Student's Summary Assessment:
College Dining:
A-
Surrounding Area:
A-
Rationale for Grades Given
2/3 of the dining halls have an allergen free restaurant— I wish it was in all! Staff are usually willing to help but sometimes don’t understand. I do wish there were more gluten free options at C-stores & at the student center, but there are definitely options. Allergens are listed online (Net Nutrition) & on signs but are occasionally absent. As someone with celiac, eating at IU is 100% doable but on occasion difficult.
Most restaurants know what gluten free chocolate is. I like Siam House as it has an extensive GF menu. I also like Chick fil a, Azzip Pizza, & Chipotle in Bloomington as they all have good protocols if you mention an allergy.
Details About this Student's Food Restrictions
How many years ago were you diagnosed with food allergies or celiac disease?
5+
If you indicated celiac or gluten intolerance, how sensitive are you to gluten?
Very: React to small amounts
Add details to help us better understand your food restrictions (e.g. sensitivity level, potential reaction, need for EPI pen)
GI distress
Details About this Student's College Dining Experience
Does your college handle food restrictions as you expected when you decided to attend?
Mostly what I expected
Have you had a reation from eating in your dining hall?
NO
If Yes, describe each incident and how your school responded
Did you register your food restriction with the disabilities office? If yes, describe
No
Are there resources to help with nutritious, safe dining (e.g. dietician)? If yes, describe
Dietitian
If you were in charge of dining, what would you change? Would your school be open to suggestions?
I would be more consistent with having safe food more easily accessible in non-dining hall restaurant locations such as the student center.
Describe your biggest challenge managing your food restrictions at college and how you deal with it
Lack of food variety. If you communicate with chefs ahead of time, they are very willing to make you more unique meals. Chef Jack at Forest is great!
Advice for Incoming Students:
Housing:
Did your food restrictions impact your housing decisions? Any dorm recommendations
No
Dining Halls:
Any advice for managing dining halls? Favorite dining halls? Any to avoid?
McNutt & Wright have allergy free stations. In Forest dining hall, pay attention to signs, may need to ask for chef or manager. IMU is a difficult place to eat except for salad bar. Wells library has gf bread at restaurants & good cross contamination protocols.
Meal Plans:
Describe your meal plans over the year(s). What's mandatory? Any suggestions?
I have had a relatively large meal plan both years. A meal plan is required first year. I have a meal plan with both dining hall swipes and flexible dining money.
Dorms:
Any advice for eating in the dorms? Favorite snacks? Places that deliver?
Microwave/fridge/large freezer.
Getting Started:
What should students do before school starts or when they first arrive?
Keep safe microwaveable meals in your dorm.
Socializing:
Advice on managing parties or dinners out with friends?
Eat beforehand, stick to safe snacks available while at parties.
Other:
Any other advice or comments?
IU is a great school in many aspects, & I’m very grateful to go here. There are some downsides in terms of food offerings, but it is possible to eat safely. For me, it is definitely worth it to go to IU & I’m glad I decided to go here.
Meal Plans:
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