1. Cornell University
Location: Ithaca, New York
“My daughter graduated from Cornell last year. She easily navigated the dining halls with peanut, tree nut, sesame, fish, and shellfish allergies. Most of the dining hall food items were labeled.”
@sheryl who manages peanut, tree nut, fish, shellfish, and sesame allergies
2. Vanderbilt University
Location: Nashville, Tennessee
“All of the Vanderbilt dining halls are completely nut-free. There are a few cafès on campus that do have nuts, but they are very aware of allergies. If you have limited options, Vanderbilt provides a service on their dining app in which you can order almost any food ahead of time and have it ready for you when you arrive in the dining hall. They make the food especially for you to fit your needs.”
@brookeblumberg who manages peanut and tree nut allergies
3. Northwestern University
Location: Evanston, Illinois
“Has a dining hall dedicated to people with food allergies and is free of the top eight! Also has a vegetarian/vegan dining hall!”
@delaneybrody who manages peanut, tree nut, and egg allergies
4. University of Michigan
Location: Ann Arbor, Michigan
“Dining in the South Quad dining hall at the University of Michigan was an incredible experience throughout this past year. Beyond the extremely dynamic variety of tasty food, the dining was super cautious in regard to allergies. Every single piece of food served in the entire dining hall had a detailed breakdown of all ingredients and allergens on a sign adjacent to the food. For someone who came into college uneasy about my college eating experience, the South Quad dining hall made eating enjoyable.”
@cfriedland9 who manages peanut and tree nut allergies
5. Michigan State University
Location: East Lansing, Michigan
“It has been a while since I ate in the dining halls here, but in 2011-2013ish they were all safe for me to eat in with a very severe airborne peanut and moderate tree nut/legume allergies. Brody was my main neighborhood place and they walked me through the food areas my first week to describe what is safe and what isn’t. I just spoke to someone in charge at each dining hall before eating anything. A lot of the dining halls have/are being renovated and I’m sure they’re even more on top of allergies now than they were when I was there! (Hello, top 8 allergen-free hall!)”
@sabudama who manages peanut, tree nut, and legume allergies
6. Washington University in St. Louis
Location: St. Louis, Missouri
“I was in contact with the registered dietitians (Rebecca and Susan) before coming to campus and they were really helpful. On my move-in day, I attended a couple of food allergy sessions, toured the kitchen, and met the executive chef. There is a top 8 free station (will become top 9 free next year). There are separate areas for preparation and everything is clearly marked. I’ve felt really safe eating here, and there are always a couple of options available that I don’t even have to talk to the chefs about, which is so nice!”
@amandayoung03 who manages peanut, tree nut, milk, egg, fish, and shellfish allergies
7. Stanford University
Location: Stanford, California
“Stanford has one dining hall called Ricker that is entirely peanut and tree nut-free! It is a lifesaver for folks with allergies to be able to a wide variety of great food without having to worry and the food is great, too.”
@gfnutfreemama who manages tree nut allergies
8. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Location: Champaign, Illinois
“The dining services had a program where you could fill out a form specifying which dorm you wanted to eat at, what time you would be coming in, what your allergies were, and what kind of food you wanted. The chefs are super knowledgeable and enjoy the program because it gives them a chance to make a fun, personalized meal.”
@kevinbrenner21 who manages celiac and milk and wheat allergies
9. University of Chicago
Location: Chicago, Illinois
“One of the best allergy policies in the country.”
@apalin who manages peanut and soy allergies
10. Boston University
Location: Boston, Massachusetts
“Each semester, the nutrition center met with each student with dietary restrictions to figure out meal plans and safe options. A separate dedicated pantry in each dining hall is available to anyone with allergies.”
@nutfreefun who manages peanut and tree nut allergies
11. University of Denver
Location: Denver, Colorado
“Pre-COVID era, we visited University of Denver with my son. It became his top choice, as it was a perfect fit for his interests (skiing and other clubs) and accommodated his food allergies. I was impressed with their dining service team when we visited. They were the only team that was able to provide his lunch during our college tour and did this without prior notification. The director of dining services is from the school’s catering company, so there’s a symbiotic relationship, especially when it comes to food allergens and cross-contact. The chef was very patient, approachable, knowledgeable, and accommodating. Foods were clearly labeled. The chef had a dedicated space or cleaned space for preparing my son’s food.”
@allergyfriend who manages peanut, tree nut, milk, egg, soy, fish, shellfish, seed, legume, fruit, and meat allergies
12. Boston College
Location: Newton, Massachusetts
“I did a two week summer program here and the staff at the dining hall were very accommodating. When I asked for a sub, they took unopened ingredients from the back and made it fresh. They did the same with everything else. I was very satisfied and I felt safe.”
@therealolivier who manages peanut, tree nut, milk, and egg allergies
13. Syracuse University
Location: Syracuse, New York
“I’m a rising junior at Syracuse and I have had nothing but great experiences with Syracuse dining! Their menu is all listed online and if you click on the item, it shows you the nutritional information and the allergens. If for some reason there is a food that’s out at the dining hall that isn’t on the online menu, there is usually a QR code on it that will take you to the nutritional info and allergen info. Definitely make friends with the dining hall managers! They are willing and able to help! A few times, they helped me navigate the omelette bar and they helped me by keeping foods like pasta separate for me. There is also an on-campus nutritionist that handles allergies and she is a great resource for helping to navigate your allergies! Also, when you fill out your housing form, if you say that you have allergies on the form about special accommodations, they can try to pair you with a roommate who also has allergies! I was unaware of that my freshman year but I wish I had been!”
@carlinhanley who manages peanut, tree nut, milk, and seed allergies
14. New York University
Location: New York, New York
“I was really comfortable with NYU’s dining. I only frequented the dining halls occasionally, but I always felt I could find a safe option. I was also able to live in a dorm room with a kitchen every year I lived on-campus. I also did a summer abroad at NYU Florence and the team in their dining hall was incredible.”
@vpizz who manages peanut and tree nut allergies
15. Rowan University
Location: Glassboro, New Jersey
“I was able to continue allergy shots at school with the help of the nurses at the health center communicating with my allergist!”
@khill13 who manages peanut, tree nut, and legume allergies
16. Miami University
Location: Oxford, Ohio
“When I went here, they had a lot of great gluten-free and dairy-free options. Multiple hood salad bar stations as well as markets loaded with groceries including gluten-free and dairy-free snacks. Also check out Moon Co-op for off-campus grocery shopping/lunch.”
@paigeflory who manages celiac and milk and wheat allergies
17. Elon University
Location: Elon, North Carolina
“First of all, the school has a dining hall section that is COMPLETELY allergy-friendly. It is free of the top 8 allergens, with no cross contamination. Each dining hall’s menu items each day are listed online with all of their ingredients listed. These menus, with the ingredients and items, are also displayed on screens above the different dining hall stations. They also have my favorite allergy-friendly brands as “grab and go” snack items in the different dining halls. They also have extensive amounts of allergy-friendly food items in each of the stores on campus. I’m able to find my favorite allergy-friendly ice cream, cookies, baking mixes, etc. just down the hill from my dorm!”
@allergystrategy who manages peanut, milk, egg, fish, and shellfish allergies
18. University of Wisconsin- Madison
Location: Madison, Wisconsin
“My two best friends from high school both go here and I visited them in the winter. The school itself is super accommodating and has great health services! There are also TONS of eating options around campus that are proactive, too.”
@reganh who manages milk and egg allergies
19. Tulane University
Location: New Orleans, Louisiana
“I had an amazing experience at Tulane! I ate so many times at the Hillel, which had some of my allergens, and they were always so careful and considerate. The dining hall has a specific area without major allergens that is always safe. I loved my time at Tulane and highly recommend!”
@izzytri12 who manages tree nut, fish, and sesame allergies
20. Harvard University
Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts
“My experience with dining at Harvard with a nut allergy has been somewhat positive. Dishes with allergens are only sometimes labeled, and so it requires a lot of asking the dining staff. I also have been given the option to order my meals separately and email ahead (accommodations through AEO). However, students at Harvard do not have the option to cook for themselves or get off of the required meal plan.”
@alexajordan who manages tree nut, milk, and fruit allergies
21. Juniata College
Location: Huntingdon, Pennsylvania
“Great staff that went above and beyond to help me find safe choices—even to the point of making special desserts for me so I could try safe versions of foods like crème brûlée for the very first time!”
@jd3at who manages peanut and tree nut allergies
22. University of Miami
Location: Coral Gables, Florida
“I just committed to this college and could not be more excited! I am just starting the process of dorms and food. I was super nervous about being able to eat at college with egg and nut allergies. Therefore, I reached out to the dining service to see if we could discuss my allergies. We have already planned to meet the first day of school and they made me feel so safe on the phone saying she will point everything out to me every day of what I can eat and what I can’t. There are even vegan, gluten-free, and options for people who want a healthier diet!”
@delaneybrody who manages peanut, tree nut, and egg allergies
23. St. Mary’s College of California
Location: Moraga, California
“The Dining Hall staff are very accommodating to allergies. Because the college is so small, staff members recognize you and can plan for alternative meal choices.”
@skelly4545 who manages peanut and tree nut allergies
24. Merrimack College
Location: North Andover, Massachusetts
“Had a dedicated area for students with food allergies where safe foods were kept. All food served in the cafeteria had a sign next to it stating the ingredients and allergy information.”
@ckr16 who manages peanut, tree nut, and soy allergies
25. Illinois State University
Location: Normal, Illinois
“The head of Food Service and Dining was very attentive and assured my daughter that she could call or visit her office every day to check the safety of any food on the menu. She was amazing! And, my daughter loved the food at ISU. She said it tasted homemade. The weekly menu is available on an app and lists all allergens a meal may contain. I would highly recommend ISU to other allergic students.”
@rzn3grlz who manages peanut, tree nut, and soy allergies
26. Carnegie Mellon University
Location: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
“Carnegie Mellon went out of the way within the last year to create a place to get food on campus that is completely free of the top 8 allergens. This place is called Nourish. They have prepared foods available around campus or you can place an order online and go pick it up fresh. The food is quite tasty.”
@punkinmama who manages tree nut and milk allergies
27. Santa Clara University
Location: Santa Clara, California
“Santa Clara University’s staff located in Benson Memorial dining facility has made it very easy for me to enjoy food on campus. There are a lot more food allergy-sensitive food options than I thought there would be before starting school here. Every dining place I have been to on campus has done extremely well at accommodating my needs (Saute, La Parilla, Fresco, California Deli, The Bronco, etc.)!”
@mkraus2 who manages egg and sesame allergies
28. University of Rochester
Location: Rochester, New York
“There’s an entire dining hall that is peanut and tree nut-free on campus. Also, the on-campus grocery store carries allergen-friendly brands. Even the dining halls that aren’t allergen-free had lots of options with salad bars and helpful staff who were willing to clean cooking spaces and make something safe.”
@em44411 who manages tree nut and fruit allergies
29. Pitzer College
Location: Claremont, California
“Pitzer is great for students with food allergies! They work really hard to create personal relationships with students and help you find safe options at the dining hall. Even though I’m a student at Scripps, I was still able to meet with the manager at the beginning of the school year and discuss my food allergies! While they definitely don’t have a nut-free dining hall, what they do is if you have food allergies, you can ask for the manager every time you go to the dining hall and they will pull food from the back to prevent cross contamination. They don’t label for allergens, though, which was kind of difficult for me at first, but after talking to the head of the dining hall, I was able to know what was safe and what wasn’t. They also have the smallest dining hall of all the Claremont Colleges, so definitely not my first choice (the bread station that has open containers of peanut butter and almond butter is avoidable, but so messy and sort of in the middle of everything). However, I was told they never cook anything with nuts, but just have nuts throughout the dining hall as add-in options (by ice cream, in the salad bar, etc.). I feel like because of this, some of the other dining options at the Claremont Colleges are definitely better for food allergies, but Pitzer is still a decent option.”
@emsnutfreeeats who manages celiac and peanut and tree nut allergies
30. University of Notre Dame
Location: Notre Dame, Indiana
“There are special nut-free and gluten-free sections in all dining halls to accommodate allergies. Other places to eat on campus also have safe dining options. All staff is very sensitive and proactive! An overall great community and safe place to go with allergies.”
@reganh who manages milk and egg allergies
31. Tufts University
Location: Medford, Massachusetts
“Tufts has been so accommodating with handling food allergies in the dining hall and in other aspects on campus with Accessibility Services. There are 2 dining halls on campus. One is completely peanut, tree nut, and gluten-free; the other one has a top 9 free station with a separate dedicated kitchen. This has been so freeing and makes dining safely super easy. I am also a part of their Alternative Meal Plan, which allows me to order meals to be made separately and with my allergies specified. I have worked with the dietitian on campus, Kelly Shaw, who has been so wonderful with creating a meal plan that feels comfortable for my allergies and life as a student. Dining away from home was such a huge factor with moving away to college, but all of the dining staff at Tufts have been so accommodating with making sure that I can dine safely each day. In addition to all of that, their Student Accessibility Office has been great with setting up accommodations and allowing me to have a single room with my own mini fridge and microwave. Such amazing protocols which make me feel extra safe!”
@catherinewalker who manages peanut, tree nut, milk, egg, quinoa, and latex allergies
32. Vassar College
Location: Poughkeepsie, New York
“Vassar recently updated their meal plan and dining hall. There are different sections in the ACDC (the dining hall) that are conscientious of food allergies and diets. For example, the Oasis section (which often times has delicious options), is for those with food allergies and diets. They also have a Kosher section in the dining hall. Also, the campus is very good about trying to serve everyone’s needs for all-campus, such as offering options that are gluten-free, vegan, etc.”
@jamartinez who manages peanut and shellfish allergies
33. Columbia University
Location: New York City, New York
“All food is labeled with major allergens. Feel safe, especially in John Jay and JJ’s, where labels are visible and clear.”
@rwachen who manages a milk allergy
34. Emerson College
Location: Boston, Massachusetts
“I am currently an undergraduate student here at Emerson College. The dining hall is quite allergy-friendly—mostly nut-free, and there is a specific allergy-free station. Single room housing accommodations are available for on-campus students with severe allergies, but be aware, acquiring the actual accommodation can be a lengthy process! As well, there are allergy-friendly snacks (brands like Enjoy Life and YumEarth) available at the school’s convenience store for students!”
@abbyadkins who manages peanut and tree nut allergies
35. Oklahoma State University
Location: Stillwater, Oklahoma
“I toured Oklahoma State over spring break and I was impressed to see great steps for people with food allergies. First, our tour guide, Kory, knew of restaurants around town that were food sensitivity-friendly. Also, the dorms we were showed had two sets of kitchens on each side of each floor and you could bring your own pans to cook. I was looking on their website and they have a specific person to talk to about allergies. They also have allergen menus on their website for restaurants in the Student Union. Disability Services seemed very willing to make accommodations for dining, as well as housing. Just to clarify, I was only touring and am not a student on the campus, but going on the visit has definitely lessened my fears of possibly attending the campus.”
@dhodson500 who manages a peanut allergy
36. Wheaton College
Location: Wheaton, Massachusetts
“I’m going to be a senior here this upcoming 2022-2023 year. I’ve had some really great experiences dining here. The lower campus dining hall is 100% nut-free except for a jar of peanut butter by the toast station. However, they maintain that so it doesn’t become an issue for allergy students. They have a dinning line called True Balance that is top 8 friendly. I’ve had some problems eating there, as it doesn’t cover my chickpea or legume allergies as well as some staff having issues with cross contamination. However, I brought that all up with the dining staff and one of the dinning staff has really crafted such a good experience here for me. She is super accommodating with all my allergies and my super crazy schedule. She has also never has made me feel unsafe about what I’m eating. She also puts so much time and effort into each meal I eat and gets excited when I tell her about alternative brands that are safe for me—she ends up using them in her recipes. When I started college, I was terrified about finding somewhere that would work for my major, as well as my safety with eating. I’m definitely going to miss being here next year because of her and how she handles everyone with allergies. She’s been amazing; she’s almost like a second mom away from home for me!”
@sdrouin who manages peanut, tree nut, milk, egg, soy, seed, vegetable, fruit, grain, and legume allergies
37. Grinnell College
Location: Grinnell, Iowa
“Just toured here! Next to every counter and food item there was a card listing the top 8 allergens it contained (if any.) Additionally, there were separate gluten-free and vegan counters with many different options.”
@harp.o who manages a milk allergy
38. Auburn University
Location: Auburn, Alabama
“In three of the dining halls, there are allergy stations called True Balance, which serve meals free from the top 8 food allergens! My go-to place to eat for dinner! There is also a Panera, Au Bon Pain, Starbucks, NYC Gyro food truck, and Amsterdam Taco truck on campus! I find I can eat at all these places with no worries about allergens!”
@liarw who manages peanut and tree nut allergies
39. Bradley University
Location: Peoria, Illinois
” Bradley has so many dining options! Their cafeterias include gluten-free and “better for you” sections, and their POD convenience stores offer specialty grocery items for food allergies and diets! Also, their health services are completely free if anything should ever come up.”
@sarahaviva who manages an apricot allergy
40. Brigham Young University
Location: Provo, Utah
“The Choices restaurant in the Cougareat is fantastic and had lots of safe gluten-free options.”
@rantipoler who manages celiac and a wheat allergy
41. University of Massachusetts Amherst
Location: Hampshire County, Massachusetts
“As a student at UMass Amherst with allergies, I was placed on a dietitian’s email list to be notified ahead of time if there were any peanut specials in any of the dining halls. There were safe options for me in every dining location at UMass, and top 8 free brands were sold all around campus. Also, every single dish in the dining halls and on-campus dining locations was labeled with ingredients and allergens. UMass Dining additionally has an app that lists the menus for every dining location, complete with updated ingredients and allergens for every item served. There are designated gluten-free and vegetarian locations in the dining halls, but if you have questions or trouble finding something safe, a manager will assist you or make sure something is prepared specifically for you.”
@bha474 who manages peanut, tree nut, and fruit allergies
42. Georgetown University
Location: Georgetown, Washington, D.C.
“Recently spent one week here for a summer program and I was beyond satisfied. Within the dining hall, there was an allergen-free section and the chefs cooked food without the top 8 allergens. I felt so safe.”
@therealolivier who manages peanut, tree nut, milk, and egg allergies
43. College of the Holy Cross
Location: Worcester, Massachusetts
“Holy Cross has been pretty great with my restrictions so far (1st semester freshman year)! The main dining hall, Kimball, has just introduced a top 10 free clean eating station, and that food is delicious! There is also an option to order your food the night before for it to be prepared separately in the kitchen and handed to you wrapped. You just have to ask the dietitian for the link. I can’t really speak to the other dining locations on campus—I find it more difficult to eat there—but Main Kimball is really great! Also entirely nut-free!”
@elaineeannaa who manages celiac and a milk allergy
44. Wake Forest University
Location: Winston-Salem, North Carolina
“Wake Forest University’s main dining hall, “The Pit”, is entirely peanut-free, which gives a lot of options to those with allergies. Additionally, the food there is VERY good for dining hall food. Yamas Mediterranean food is also entirely peanut-free. There are many places on campus, however, that have peanut options. The Chick-Fil-A on campus obviously uses peanut oil, and the North Dining hall serves peanut butter. Einstein’s Bagels also has peanut butter, but only given pre-packaged. Village Juice is another great peanut-free option, as they only use tree nuts in their food. Forest Greens also does not serve peanut butter anymore, after a complaint that it was unsafe. Overall, the university is fairly good with handling allergies, and I’ve been able to manage safely for 2 and a half years now! Go Deacs! P.S. I did have a reaction here sophomore year to peanut cross-contamination from food prepared in my own dorm, and student health services was able to handle it very well!”
@elliegust who manages a peanut allergy
45. The University of Texas at Austin
Location: Austin, Texas
“Food allergy center available, plus a food bar in the dining hall providing foods free of the 9 main allergens.”
@celie who manages peanut, seed, vegetable, and fruit allergies
46. The University of Utah
Location: Salt Lake City, Utah
“The cafeteria has some ok options but I made most of my food at my apartment and brought my snacks every day as well.”
@elledairyfree who manages a milk allergy
47. Skidmore College
Location: Saratoga Springs, New York
“I attended Skidmore College and the staff was absolutely incredible. During my freshman year, I was on a restricted 10 food diet while investigating EoE and anaphylaxis and the dining staff custom prepared every meal for me so that I could “be normal” and eat with friends in the dining hall. I was able to request meals and they were stored in a separate test kitchen to prevent contamination. They were exceptional. In my second year, the college enabled me to move into upperclassmen housing with a kitchen and select friends to move in with so that I could also have a kitchen.”
@lbernstein12 who manages peanut, tree nut, milk, egg, soy, fish, shellfish, wheat, sesame, and avocado allergies
48. Brown University
Location: Providence, Rhode Island
“I spent a summer here and ate well. They have a preorder method for people with allergies that limits cross contamination, as well as an allergy-friendly pantry.”
@nutsfornogluten who manages celiac and peanut and tree nut allergies
49. Edinboro University
Location: Edinboro, Pennsylvania
“Rose Hall and Pogue are very clear about the products that they use and give warnings to the products that may contain certain allergens. They also have alternatives for those who have different allergies at different stations.”
@lexischrick who manages shellfish allergies
50. Regent University
Location: Virginia Beach, Virginia
“Campus housing all have kitchens which allows for much more control of personal meals. Cafeteria dining is optional but staff communicate well.”
@luthien22 who manages peanut, vegetable, and apple allergies
51. University of Pennsylvania
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
“Obviously was nervous in the weeks leading up to my freshman year of college, for more reasons than one. Most of all, for both myself and my parents, was the fear that a milk and nut allergy would make adjusting to the college lifestyle harder than it had to to be. Thankfully, Penn made that aspect of the transition easy. Dan Connolly, a registered dietician at the school, helped me navigate dining at Penn, even setting up meetings with the head chefs at the dining halls before I arrived. Whenever I’d be unsure about that day’s menu, I could send the chef a text ahead of time and there’d be a safe meal ready for me upon arriving at the dining hall. Beyond that, the prep cooks at the dining halls were not only aware of the necessary protocols, but receptive to my questions and needs. Penn advocates for students with food allergies!”
@jamisonv who manages tree nut and milk allergies
52. James Madison University
Location: Harrisonburg, Virginia
“Very helpful Office of Disability Services, professors all willing to work with you, and people tend to be nice about allergies.”
@toboldlygo who manages peanut and tree nut allergies
53. Rochester Institute of Technology
Location: Monroe County, New York
“The staff there are specifically trained to be sensitive of food allergies, with designated chefs who will change their gloves and walk you through the cooking procedure so you know exactly what’s in your food. They take their job very seriously, but at the same time, they don’t make a scene about it; it’s just a part of their job. I was at RIT for a summer research program and having allergy-friendly places with so many options and staff that really cared complimented my already positive experience there.”
@m26blue who manages peanut, tree nut, and milk allergies
54. University of California, Los Angeles
Location: Los Angeles, California
“UCLA has the #1 or #2 dining hall ranking in the US every year. I was extremely spoiled being able to attend this school with the food allergies I have. I am anaphylactic to dairy, peanuts, and all tree nuts, but never felt restricted when it came to eating and food at UCLA. The dining halls were extremely varied in food options, from “classic” dining halls, to purely Asian food halls, Mediterranean food halls, and health food halls. Each meal of the day was updated on an app so you could see every ingredient used on every dish. Additionally, UCLA Ronald Reagan hospital, one of the top hospitals in the country, is within 10 minutes of any spot on campus. I suffered 3 anaphylactic shocks while at UCLA (none from dining halls) and I was able to walk 2 of the times from my apartment, into the emergency room and get treated right away. I was given incredible attention and help at the hospital, so felt very safe my time at university.”
@gracefriendly who manages celiac and peanut, tree nut, milk, and wheat allergies
55. Wesleyan University
Location: Middletown, Connecticut
“While on a college visit, I ate here and the food was so delicious! They had a ton of nut-free options! I would steer clear from the stir fry bar, however, as there might be cross contamination.”
@avasato who manages tree nut allergies
56. Emory University
Location: DeKalb County, Georgia
“My food allergy experience at Emory was literally a dream come true! That being said, it did take a lot of work and advanced planning! I applied early decision to Emory, and my mom and I first visited the school and began talking to dining and disability services during my sophomore year of high school! After several subsequent visits and meetings, we worked out a great plan in which I lived in a single dorm, yet all of my meals are in the main dining hall, so as to not miss the integral social aspect! I did this for all 4 years and had all my own safe food prepared for me by the amazing dining hall staff. I only ate at the main dining hall (where all the employees knew me!) and never at any of the other dining halls. This main dining hall was completely free of peanuts, tree nuts, and shellfish. They also have a gluten-free station and a vegan station. Because of the severity of my allergies, I still had to get special food prepared just for me, but being peanut, tree nut, and shellfish-free would allow many with allergies to have a completely normal dining hall experience! While I fortunately never had an anaphylactic reaction while at Emory, it was always nice to know that Emory Hospital is less than a 5 minute walk from the main dining hall! In the event of an emergency, this is critical! Overall, I do not have enough amazing things to say about Emory!”
@missmeliss1895 who manages celiac and peanut, tree nut, milk, egg, and shellfish allergies
57. Claremont McKenna College
Location: Claremont, California
“I’m a Scripps student but my major is through CMC, so I end up spending a lot of my time here! The staff and administration are so helpful. When you start college with food allergies/dietary restrictions, they encourage you to meet with a representative of the dining hall to discuss your allergies and what you need. I’ve had pretty good experiences dining at their dining hall (they do use nuts, but label fairly well), and overall, have felt that they are helpful to students with food allergies.”
@emsnutfreeeats who manages celiac and peanut and tree nut allergies
58. Dartmouth College
Location: Hanover, New Hampshire
“There are separate sections for gluten-free, kosher, halal, vegan, and vegetarian. Everything is labeled with major allergens.”
@morganromo who manages tree nut, milk, and seed allergies
59. George Mason University
Location: Fairfax County, Virginia
“I’ve had an amazing experience with GMU’s dining staff! Upon first entering as a freshman, there were no options for me that were made safely in separate areas without my allergens, so every week the dietician would create a menu based off of my preferences and email me the menu. Each day and each meal, I would go into the dining hall, talk to the designated person, and they would remove my meal that was wrapped in plastic wrap safely from the heater. It was always prepared safely for me in a separate area without my allergens. They went as far as providing me with their cell numbers to text them the times I was coming to eat so my food wouldn’t be cold. I was able to safely dine in the dining hall with all the other students for the first 2 years of college, then my junior year, they created a station called Simple Servings. Simple Servings serves top 8 allergy-free food items daily, 3x a day, in a dedicated allergy-free section/ station. I was able to help with the development of that safe section! They have their own Simple Servings-specific pans, pots, utensils, and ingredients. They also have allergen-free baked goods, SunButter, rice milks, etc. They also do not allow students to get food at that station themselves; it is not self serve, all of the staff is Allertrained, and food is given to students on a new plate every single time to eliminate cross contamination. I am so grateful for their attention and help with my allergies. I’ve never had a better experience at any other college.”
@ashleybga who manages peanut, tree nut, milk, soy, halibut, sesame, and lima bean allergies
60. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Location: Chapel Hill, North Carolina
“Close to major allergy hospital.”
@apalin who manages peanut and soy allergies
61. University of Missouri
Location: Columbia, Missouri
“I have had nothing but great experiences with Mizzou dining! They always have allergy-friendly options when asked and even keep specific fridges filled with alternative foods for students of all common allergens. Overall, it had lots of options and an educated staff who were willing to make adjustments as necessary.”
@diver96 who manages peanut and tree nut allergies
62. University of Washington
Location: Seattle, Washington
“I have always felt safe dining at the UW. Each spot in the dining hall lists all the allergens of each meal. Most of the spots are nut-free. In the main dining halls for the dorms, there are many options with all the allergens listed, plus staff are very informed. I love my school and how seriously they take my allergy! Anyone looking to go here is in safe hands, and I even had a lady talk me through the options before I even came to this college!”
@amandarodriguez who manages a peanut allergy
63. University of Tennessee
Location: Knoxville, Tennessee
“They were very understanding of my needs!”
@saylerreynolds who manages celiac
64. College of Charleston
Location: Charleston, South Carolina
“We toured this school NOT with my food allergy daughter, but wanted to share that our tour guide mentioned they have a dining hall that is vegan, vegetarian, and kosher. They have multiple dining halls on the campus, but sounds like this one is dedicated to special diets. We were unable to tour inside any and our tour guide lived off campus due to COVID so I didn’t ask her about food allergies.”
@susie who manages peanut and tree nut allergies
65. Colby College
Location: Waterville, Maine
“Dining hall is safe for peanut and tree-nut allergies, except there are warning signs when you are going to get food such as cross contamination. Over my two weeks, I figured out some go-to’s that I knew would be safe.”
@soph551926115 who manages peanut and tree nut allergies
66. Southern Methodist University
Location: Dallas, Texas
“SMU offers access to an entire pantry located in the center of the dining hall full of gluten-free options. Some of these options include all of Udi’s bread products (sandwich bread, bagels, muffins), frozen pizzas, frozen chicken nuggets, frozen waffles, and various cereals. They also accommodate many other dietary restrictions in the pantry, such as vegan and keto diets. Even if you don’t see one of your favorite gluten-free products, you can request for them on this form in the pantry and, often, they will purchase it for the pantry. Outside of the pantry, the omelette and sandwich station is gluten-free.”
@shosbein who manages celiac and a wheat allergy
67. University of Southern California
Location: Los Angeles, California
“The Parkside Apartment Cafeteria has the most allergy-friendly cafeteria I have ever seen!”
@laurynjones who manages peanut, tree nut, milk, fish, shellfish, kiwi, and chocolate allergies
68. The Chicago School of Professional Psychology
Location: Chicago, Illinois
“I attend The Chicago School of Professional Psychology and have been thankful for their attention to allergies. They encourage students to be cognizant of other allergies and hang “No Nuts” signs around the campus. Definitely helps me feel safer during class!”
@alyssabauder who manages a peanut allergy
69. Saint Anselm College
Location: Manchester, New Hampshire
“My college has the absolute best dining services. I’ve never had an issue. I order my food ahead of time and it is custom made for me.”
@jessguad who manages celiac and peanut, tree nut, wheat, grain, and legume allergies
70. The University of Arizona
Location: Tucson, Arizona
“The dining hall is not set up in typical buffet or line style dining. There are separate establishments that rent out the areas within our dining area (Chick-Fil-A, Papa John’s, Steak & Shake, Panda Express, Einstein Bagels, etc). This makes it a bit easier to navigate with food allergies, since menu items don’t typically change. There are a few non-chain restaurants in the dining centers, but the workers are all knowledgeable and willing to help (usually, they will get a manager for you to speak with). There is one all-you-can-eat restaurant, Pangea, that is self-serve. Each dish has a name card with the ingredients that are in the dish! Amazing!”
@toriwong who manages peanut, tree nut, and milk allergies
71. University of San Francisco
Location: San Francisco, California
“Before my freshman year began, I sat down with the woman in charge of the cafeteria. She told me everything I could eat/could not eat. For example, the Italian station, Mexican station, grill, and soups were always safe. I was told to stay away from the bakery, sandwiches, and salads due to possible cross contamination. We also had flexi dollars to pay with. They allowed me to get on a special plan where I didn’t need to spend as much money because they knew I wouldn’t be eating quite as much from the cafeteria as other students. I was able to buy a lot of safe groceries in the cafeteria store, as well. They even offered to grocery shop for me if I wanted them to and they would deliver it to my room. I didn’t accept the offer because I felt more confident in my own ability to shop safely for myself, but it was so kind to offer. No reactions all 4 years!”
@alliecastro22 who manages peanut and tree nut allergies
72. Fordham University Lincoln Center
Location: New York, New York
“I was here for the School of the New York Times summer program and the dining hall was allergy-friendly and very accommodating. The food was great, too.”
@amandarodriguez who manages a peanut allergy
73. Lehigh University
Location: Bethlehem, Pennsylvania
“I became interested in Lehigh University after finding out that they had a top 8 allergen-free section in their dining hall! I read that separate purple utensils, carts, and cutting boards were used solely in that station. Specially trained chefs work behind the counter and labels list ingredients for each dish! A wide variety of recipes are used so students can enjoy different and new meals. I was very excited upon finding this out, and I can’t wait to look more into this!”
@audreycha who manages peanut, tree nut, egg, shrimp, wheat, sesame, barley, and legume allergies
74. Loyola Marymount University
Location: Los Angeles, California
“To be quite honest, my experience at the school’s dining halls was not the best. Their staff does not seem educated on allergies and there is definitely no system in place for accommodating for cross contamination. I was able to meet with the “head chef” on move in day my freshman year, but it did not feel like the servers had any training. I once asked if a pasta station had any nuts, was told no, then pointed to a bottle of pesto and asked if it had nuts and he said no. Another server interrupted and said it had “pistachios”… no, it’s pine nuts and either way, both are nuts. I mostly stuck with the Mexican station and tried to befriend the staff so they would do extra cleaning for me, because it wasn’t standard. Thankfully, things have improved since I left, but I would still make an effort to meet with the head chef upon move in at the 2 main dining halls. The student-run coffee shop is amazing, though. Make an effort to get to know the student workers and they will take care of you. Avoid Jamba Juice; I never trusted it once in my 4 years there. Nursing staff on campus are wonderful. If you get allergy shots, try to get on the waitlist the second you enroll!”
@kqwright5 who manages peanut, tree nut, and sesame allergies
75. The LeRoy Neiman Center: School of the Art Institute of Chicago
Location: Chicago, Illinois
“They always provide gluten-free options in the Leroy Nieman Center cafeteria out of the 4 daily specials.”
@aliu who manages a citrus allergy
76. Barnard College
Location: New York City, New York
“Food-allergic friend goes here and feels safe. Also plenty of off campus options. Close to a major allergy hospital.”
@apalin who manages peanut and soy allergies
77. Bowling Green State University
Location: Bowling Green, Ohio
“I was able to speak to the dietitian on campus, and the head chef, and they cleared my doubts. My meals are completely customized to the foods that are safe for me, as well as the types of food I like and don’t like. All I have to do is email about an hour before I go and they have food ready for me each time. In addition, the dietitian on campus has arranged a teaching kitchen class for allergy students. Another great part of my experience is the fact that when I suggest something or have an issue, it is immediately acted upon. Last year, I asked if we could have more granola bars that I could eat in the little markets that we have on campus. A few weeks later, they were there, along with a bunch of other products from that brand. Food is a big piece of feeling at home, and I can gladly say that Bowling Green is my second home because of the people that have helped me feel safe enough to eat there.”
@felber6868 who manages peanut and grain allergies
78. The Ohio State University
Location: Columbus, Ohio
“Ohio State did an amazing job accommodating my allergies! I registered with Disability Services for housing accommodations because I was worried about living in the dorms with someone else who didn’t have allergies. That process really paid off for me in the long run and I highly recommend doing so. Their dining facilities also have a great labeling policy for allergens that are visible and easy to follow. Certain cafeterias even have dedicated gluten-free/allergy-friendly sections. I always felt safe eating on campus and had a dining plan all four years!”
@alyssabauder who manages a peanut allergy
79. University of Connecticut
Location: Storrs, Connecticut
“My son is a student at UConn (junior). He advocates for himself. Before attending, he was very diligent about contacting the Center for Student Disabilities and the Director of Dining Services about his food allergies (anaphylactic to tree nuts and also kiwi). They were very accommodating. He met with the dining services director and understood what was safe for him and what to avoid. There was clear labeling. My son always carries his EPI or AUVI-Q with him. The UCMB coordinates with the dining services office for their meals during the preseason and season and while they are traveling. They do this prior to the beginning of every school year. Since he attends UCONN, we cannot go without mentioning the incredibly popular UCONN Dairy Bar. Each time he goes, he advises them about his tree nut allergy. They always use a clean scoop and a new bin. They have a separate area for scooping treats for those with allergies. He’s never had any issues.”
@svm0927 who manages tree nut and fruit allergies
80. University of Virginia
Location: Charlottesville, Virginia
“I visited here and, though I don’t attend, the tour guide emphasized how great the dining hall was at managing food allergies and dietary restrictions.”
@awissink who manages peanut, squid, sesame, and fruit allergies
81. Macalester – Groveland
Location: Saint Paul, Minnesota
“My brother goes here and loves it! They are accommodating and super helpful. He got a dorm with AC to keep his AUVI-Q’s at the right temperature and lots of extra space!”
@esme28 who manages peanut, tree nut, and seed allergies
82. Rutgers University
Location: New Brunswick, New Jersey
“I visited Rutgers University for an admitted students event, and was blown away by their dining services. When choosing a college to commit to, food and safety was the number one concern for our family. However, Rutgers seemed to be very proactive and up-to-date on their food allergy policies. During our visit, we got to eat at the Livingston Campus dining hall, claimed to be the students’ top choice for eating at Rutgers. As it was an event day, the chef was right in front to greet everyone and answer questions. He personally led me through the buffet and let me know which foods I could eat. He then informed me that Rutgers uses a system in which students with allergies can electronically submit what they want to eat for the day, and have their meal prepared ahead of time safely. For my experience, the chef got the food items right off of the individual grill stations and kitchens so it wouldn’t be contaminated (which is often the concern for buffet style dining). I love this about Rutgers University.”
@audreycha who manages peanut, tree nut, egg, shrimp, wheat, sesame, barley, and legume allergies
83. Georgia Institute of Technology
Location: Atlanta, Georgia
“They have an app (Nutrislice) that allows you to preview the menu and see the allergens in any given food. Additionally, there are icons listed on the name tag of each food that denotes what the allergens are. There’s also a station that had a sign that said it was free of the top 8 (and said exactly which allergens they were free of). I ate in the North Ave dining hall and found that they had a lot of options, even for the middle of the summer!”
@carlinhanley who manages peanut, tree nut, milk, shrimp, and sesame allergies
84. Thomas Jefferson University East Falls Campus
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
“I am a sophomore in the PA program at Jefferson and had to be on the 19 meal a week dining plan for my entire first year. My family and I met the dining staff, including the manager and chefs of all the dining halls, at the beginning of the year. I was able to eat on campus on move in day and was so excited to have the independence and freedom eating away from home. My process would be to email or text the chef three times a day with whatever I wanted for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This was tedious, challenging, and took a lot of time-management/trial and error, but it was the easiest way for the chefs to hand make my food. However, I did have two anaphylactic reactions in my fall semester because of mistakes in the dining hall, but they quickly changed the process in which they made my food. For example, the dining manager and head chef met with me and created a paper specific to my needs where the chef making my food had to sign off on the ingredients they used in my meal. Christopher Grant, the head chef, is amazing and I have never had any issues eating his or his Sous Chef, Steve’s, food. They’ve made me meals from salmon bowls to ramen to Philly Cheesesteaks to shrimp scampi, and everything tastes so good. With that being said, I would recommend to someone with more severe allergies to commute or request a kitchen because there will be human error in a college dining hall and it is difficult to prevent when there are many students. However, Jefferson has treated me well and I am well-acquainted with all of the kitchen staff. You must take the steps to meet with the chefs and speak up when you see something or have questions, which is all part of advocating for yourself. I also fought to get a single apartment for my second year so that I would not have any issues with cross contact in the kitchen with roommates and with the help of Student Accessibility Services, it all worked out and I have had a wonderful experience (and no hospital visits!) this year.”
@livwong who manages peanut, tree nut, milk, egg, and soy allergies
85. Belmont University
Location: Nashville, Tennessee
“They have a Simple Servings station, which is free of all major allergens and uses a separate kitchen. The staff is always there and ready to answer any questions you may have. This made going away to college much easier!”
@mbaldes who manages peanut, milk, sodium benzoate, olive oil, and tumeric allergies
86. Wellesley College
Location: Wellesley, Massachusetts
“Didn’t realize how great it was until I had graduated.”
@jrhskees who manages tree nut and milk allergies
87. Trine University
Location: Angola, Indiana
“My son attended a week long camp at Trine University before his senior year of high school. The dining staff met with us before the week and went through their cleaning procedures and knowledge of cross contamination. Most of their ingredients were local and fresh. Every dish was clearly labeled in the line for food allergies. A chef was always available to go over the choices at each meal and gave heads up information about the next meal.”
@henrypartyof5 who manages peanut and tree nut allergies
88. Texas State University
Location: San Marcos, Texas
“They just opened a booth that is completely allergy-friendly! It’s mostly salads and simple sandwiches but they also have frozen options in a separate area that are completely gluten-free. Freshmen with meal plans can use a “swipe” to get gluten-free meals at this booth. Jones is the best dining hall for students with food allergies, by far!”
@alyssawake who manages peanut and fruit allergies
89. Villanova University
Location: Villanova, Pennsylvania
“All prepared meals on campus are nut-free. Prepackaged nut items exist in small shops but all campus prepared meals in all dining halls are nut-free!”
@kfelker who manages peanut, tree nut, and rye allergies
90. Scripps College
Location: Claremont, California
“The Scripps dining hall was initially less than ideal for food allergies, but they were really receptive to my suggestions about improving their allergy policy and putting some changes in place (moving the peanut butter into packet form, getting rid of open containers of nuts by the ice cream). The accessibility services at Scripps were also really helpful in helping me move rooms midway through the semester due to a roommate issue. Overall, Scripps hasn’t been amazing with food allergies, but they’ve been really open to suggestions about how to improve which I have appreciated! At the Claremont Colleges, you are also allowed to eat at any of the colleges’ dining halls, so I have found it not that difficult to find safe on-campus food options! Every residence hall also has a communal kitchen that’s cleaned, so I also always had the option of cooking my own food.”
@emsnutfreeeats who manages celiac and peanut and tree nut allergies
91. St. John Fisher College
Location: Rochester, New York
“I am a college student with food allergies. This school has a dedicated gluten-free/allergen section equipped with appliances to eliminate cross contamination.”
@sarahwoods who manages celiac and milk and wheat allergies
92. William & Mary
Location: Williamsburg, Virginia
“As a sophomore at William & Mary, I have been pleased with the College’s allergy policy and protocol. Menus are clearly labeled and 2/3 of the dining halls on campus have allergy-friendly “Simple Servings” stations and are completely nut-free facilities. The school nutritionist is a fabulous resource and a wealth of information. There is always room to grow, but I feel safe eating on campus with a food allergy.”
@treenutfreemb who manages celiac and a tree nut allergy
93. University of Lynchburg
Location: Lynchburg, Virginia
“Spent 4 weeks here for governor’s school and the dining hall staff were very helpful in finding food that was safe for me to eat.”
@lemon who manages peanut, tree nut, strawberry, and chickpea allergies
94. Purchase College
Location: Harrison, New York
“Purchase College had great options at all dining locations! The Hub has gluten-free bread for sandwiches, as well as wraps, and cross contamination is taken very seriously. The main dining hall has everything clearly marked with allergens and educated staff. Terra Ve is a delicious dining spot on campus with vegan and vegetarian options and plenty of gluten-free choices. I felt the staff was very educated and they were accommodating!”
@gflongisland who manages celiac
95. Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts
“Just left my first weekend at MIT as I’m attending the EMBA Program. I am absolutely in awe of the program they have put together for students who have food allergies. I only wish they had this at my undergrad back in the day. I think I only ate pizza and pasta for 4 years in undergrad. MIT has substantial support services including the following: 1) a dedicated and very experienced dietician who took a substantial amount of time to understand my specific allergies and helped guide me through safe options 2) a dining hall location with two whole stations of tasty food that are completely free of top 8 allergens at one station and top 9 at the other. I’m not talking about the same bland options day after day; I was able to eat healthy and tasty dishes that were prepared using careful protocols to avoid top 8/9 allergens. Additionally, they list all ingredients on every single dish at the two locations, which is very helpful for people like me who have an allergy to foods outside the top 9 (legumes for me) If you are looking for a campus with safe options, keep this one on your list. The academics and research are pretty strong, too!”
@ehrspokin who manages peanut, tree nut, legume, and kiwi allergies
96. California State University, San Bernardino
Location: San Bernardino, California
“I am a current student at CSUSB. My experience dining at my school has been positive.”
@mayaisabel1999 who manages peanut, tree nut, fish, and seed allergies
97. Baylor University
Location: McLennan County, Texas
“Dietitian for school meal facilities knows of allergies and makes sure a meal is prepared per my allergies!”
@adrianapalucci who manages peanut, tree nut, and seed allergies
98. Samford University
Location: Homewood, Alabama
“Attended SU for my undergrad and graduate degrees. Lived on campus for 4 years and actively engaged with the cafeteria staff/manager. A “Simple Servings” station was created to provide daily dishes free of the top 8 allergens. Each item in the cafeteria also includes a food label and lists common allergens. Salad bar is also fantastic and nuts/croutons are kept to the side to not contaminate the other ingredients. Be sure to ask questions if uncertain and avoid the station in the middle where all food is cooked on one hot palate if cross contamination is a concern to you. Overall, great facilities and they really try to accommodate all diets/allergens!”
@jhartle1 who manages celiac and peanut, tree nut, and wheat allergies
99. Washington and Lee University
Location: Lexington, Virginia
“Special area of the cafeteria that caters to students with food allergies and has facilities to cook your own food as well. Food services is also easy to work with.”
@yamase who manages peanut, tree nut, milk, egg, fish, seed, grain, meat, and chocolate allergies
100. University of Maryland
Location: College Park, Maryland
“UMD has a staff that is amazing when it comes to food allergies. As a big university, their exposure to food allergic kids has only increased their awareness of the issue and their ability to accommodate it. They cater so well to my allergies and have a program in which I can talk directly to chefs so they can know what I am allowed to have. At the beginning of every week, I email all of the top chefs on campus saying which meals I want, at which dining hall I want the meals, and at what time I want the meals. The chefs all have a list of my food allergies and they have been great at accommodating me!”
@jfried_02 who manages peanut, tree nut, milk, egg, fish, shellfish, seed, and legume allergies
