Food Accessibility & Dietary Restrictions

Dietary restrictions due to medical conditions can be a serious concern, so it's important to accommodate attendees' dietary needs.

If the event includes food, offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.
Include a statement in publicity materials asking individuals with specific dietary needs to contact the organizer in advance for personalized options.
Notify all attendees that food will be provided.

Food Vendor Considerations

Identify the food and beverage supplier for the event and ensure they can provide common allergen-free and food-sensitivity options (e.g., nut-free, gluten-free).
If using a vendor or caterer, confirm they can provide ingredient lists for all food items.

Tables with food should be between 28 and 34 inches high (from the floor to the top of the table).
If food must be placed above 34 inches, you must ensure a portion of this food is available at lower levels.
Knee space: Provide 27 inches from the floor to the bottom of table if attendees will be using the table for eating, writing, interviewing, receiving services etc.
Aisles should be at least 36 inches wide for maneuverability, and up to 44 inches if there are goods/services on both sides.

Clear Signage: Ensure food ingredients are clearly labeled and place food on separate platters to avoid cross-contamination.
Consider offering foods without common allergens and mark items containing common allergens like peanuts, peanut oils, or gluten clearly.
Pre-plate allergenic foods to ensure safer servings for attendees.