The University of Texas at Austin
VerifiedAll of our made-to-order stations have manufacturer provided ingredient information available on our online menus, which are accessible via mobile devices and at nutrition information centers in each dining location. Customers can also ask to review product labels.
Ingredients based on manufacturer provided information can be found on our online menus. In addition, University Housing and Dining (UHD) has an icon labeling system that identifies the top 9 food allergens, along with food items that are avoided for religious and personal reasons. Allergen information may be found through the online menu system, via nutrition information centers in all UHD dining locations, and on pre-packaged UHD food items.
In addition to publishing manufacturer provided ingredient information, UHD identifies the nine major food allergens (milk, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, soy, wheat and sesame seeds) in all of our dining locations. Students can reference these icons on the online menus, in the dining halls on the digital menu boards above each serving line, and on prepackaged grab-and-go foods in the retail venues for a quick guide to appropriate choices.
General staff members are trained to notify a Food Allergy Support Team member if there are any customers with a food allergy or a special dietary request. The Food Allergy Support Team member is then trained on how to properly handle an order from a food allergic guest. We do our best to reduce the risk of cross-contact as much as possible, especially with our specialty made-to-order meal accommodations and at the top-9 allergen free line, Fresh and Simple Tastes, at J2 Dining and Kins Dining. It is important to note that University Housing and Dining cannot guarantee a 100% allergen-free dining experience at any of our dining locations.
We advise students with food allergies to request self-serve items from an unopened source behind the serving line. Students are also encouraged to contact a dining manager, chef, or a Food Allergy Support Team member when in doubt about ingredients or preparation of a particular dish.
University Housing and Dining offers a made-to-order meal option for students with dining accommodations. Students place their meal requests in advance so that our chefs can prepare each meal separately in a designated space to help eliminate the risk of cross-contact.
Fresh and Simple Tastes (FAST) is a top nine allergen and gluten-free serving line that provides a communal dining experience without the concern for cross-contact that usually comes with a buffet-style dining environment.
Each dish is freshly prepared right on the line by a Food Allergy Support Team member using lean proteins, gluten-free whole grains, and heart-healthy fats.
Food Allergy 101, How to Recognize Anaphylaxis and Campus Emergency Response Plan, Avoiding Cross-Contact, University Policies, Celiac Disease, Label Reading for Allergens and Gluten, Food Intolerances and Other Related Conditions
All dining services staff receive allergy training. We have a Food Allergy Support Team (FAST) specifically trained to handle food allergies. FAST members receive in-depth training on food allergies and are ServSafe Allergen certified through the National Restaurant Association. Students are encouraged to identify FAST members if they have questions about the ingredients in a menu item, need advice finding safe choices, or need help customizing a meal order.
Students are advised to let their RA know about their dietary restrictions. The RAs work with dining staff to make reasonable dietary accommodations for resident life programs in an effort to create a safe and inclusive collegiate experience.
Students indicate the need for accommodations on their UHD Housing Application. They then must complete a request form and supporting documentation to be submitted to the Services for Students with Disabilities office.
The UHD Housing Assignment office notifies students of housing assignments and will coordinate any logistical arrangements associated with accommodations that have been recommended by Services for Students with Disabilities.
Students should start by reviewing the University Housing and Dining Nutrition Services webpage and talking with the UHD Registered Dietitian, as self-management of their diet may be possible through utilization of existing dining options and resources. To learn about the available dining options for students with special dietary needs, visit http://housing.utexas.edu/dining/nutrition-services or contact the UHD Dietitian directly at dietitian@austin.utexas.edu.
Depending on a student's dining needs, they may be asked to submit documentation verifying their disability and need for the requested accommodation. Please note that it is the responsibility of the student to contact the UHD Registered Dietitian prior to signing a Housing Contract to determine if the requested dining accommodation(s) can be provided, as documentation of a disability does not guarantee that the request will be approved.