Allergies

Accommodating students in residence with food allergies and/or in tolerances:

Over the years, Residence Food Services has accommodated countless students living in residence with food allergies and/or intolerances. A very extensive five-week residence menu cycle, which can be viewed on line (www.uwo.ca/hfs/food/resfood/menu.htm) ensures that all students have their nutritional needs met. Daily menus which are posted online as well as at the entry to each dining room, list major ingredients used in all our hot entrees, soups, and side dishes. Students with food sensitivities are encouraged to review the menus carefully and request additional information as needed. We are more than willing to help students make menu selections that are compatible with their personal health profile.

For students with severe allergies, it is strongly recommended that they introduce themselves to the Unit Manager in their residence. The Unit Manager will then introduce them to the Unit Supervisor and Unit Chef. For the first few weeks, it is imperative that the student work closely with our residence dining staff. They have been trained in safe food handling and know the importance of food safety in the prevention of cross-contamination as well as the possible complications that can arise when a food allergen is consumed by a person with an allergy.

Our Nutrition Manager is also available to help students during these potentially challenging first few weeks of school. Submitting a personal information sheet on ones-self, outlining the details of the food allergy, also helps all our staff identify those students who may require additional assistance in making healthy food choices. These sheets are posted in the kitchen area only and are out of public view.