Back School: 4 Tips for Surviving the Dining Hall

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Aug 29

Many college students rely on dining halls for their meals, but finding gluten-free options can be challenging. For students with gluten intolerance or celiac disease, eating at dining halls can be a daunting task. However, with a little bit of planning and knowledge, it is possible to find gluten-free options that are both nutritious and delicious. Check out these useful tips to help your student make the most of their school's dining hall resources and navigate their way around the facility.

4 Tips for Surviving the Dining Hall

Speak Up

Don’t be afraid to speak up if you see unsafe practices in the dining hall when it comes to preparing and handling gluten free foods. For example, kindly request that food servers switch gloves before handling gluten-free items to avoid cross-contamination. Dining halls can get very busy and the staff may not always be mindful of these small but very important details.

2. Avoid Peak Dining Hall Hours

If you can, avoid going to the dining hall at its busiest times. Trying to navigate a crowded space while also looking for gluten-free options can be overwhelming, stressful, and uneventful. Going during off-peak hours, such as mid-morning or mid-afternoon will allow for more time to ask and field questions about gluten-free food options so that students do not feel rushed.

3. Check the Dining hall Menu Before You Go

Many college dining halls now post their menus online. Take a look at the menu before heading to the dining hall and plan your meals in advance. Look for naturally gluten-free foods like vegetables, fruits, and lean proteins. Make note of which days and times these foods are available.

4. Talk with the Food Service Management Staff

Be sure to reach out to the food service management staff about their gluten free food options. To make sure you're getting the right food, ask about the specific ingredients used in the dish you're interested in, even if it's typically gluten-free. Make sure to inquire about how the food was prepared, and whether cross-contact with gluten has been prevented in the kitchen.

Extra Tips!

Stick to whole foods. Opt for whole foods like fruits, vegetables, and proteins that are naturally gluten-free. These options are typically safer than processed foods, which may contain hidden sources of gluten.
Bring your own snacks. Keep a stash of gluten-free snacks in your dorm room or backpack for when you need a quick bite between classes or study sessions. This way, you'll always have something safe to eat on hand.
Try an omelet bar at breakfast or brunch. Make sure the pan has been thoroughly cleaned after previous use or ask if a separate, clean pan can be used instead.
DIY sandwich bars could be a good option. In some cases, gluten-free bread may be available. Make sure it remains packaged or in a sealed container that’s separate from gluten-containing bread before you use it.