Food Allergies and Intolerances

When it comes to allergies and intolerances, it may be difficult to make distinct menu alterations 'on the fly' at the time of your event. However, there are steps that you can take as a great host to make your event inclusive to all guests from the moment planning commences.

The best way to prepare for dietary needs in advance of your event is to ask guests through their RSVP to respond with any dietary restrictions or special diets they have. Once you receive that information and communicate it to your caterer, together you can select specially prepared and plated items exclusively for them. If you are not offering a plated meal service and are opting for a buffet, food labels will be made available noting dietary information so your guests can make their own informed decisions. At that point your guests will be responsible for the management of their particular dietary restrictions.

Most people know what they are allergic to and will avoid those foods. However, it is up to the catering staff to ensure that all menu items are prepared properly and that there are no instances of cross contamination, as well as properly labeled. Again, your guests with food intolerances or special diets will know what to avoid, but you can make things easier for them by communicating with your caterer the needs of various guests so they are as prepared as possible.

Your event should be fun for all of your guests and everyone should be able to find something on your menu that will not only appeal to their taste buds but will also satisfy their health concerns. At first, a party menu that caterers to a wider range of dietary restrictions may seem daunting, but it gives both you and your caterer the opportunity to be creative and deliver a wide range of tasty delights to tall your guests.