Greetings STARFLEET,

Food is essential for life, yet everyone has different diets. These differences can become a point of contention quickly, especially if we’re planning an event. Therefore, this subject does fall under IDIC in things to think about.

Before we begin, a few definitions. A food allergy generates an immune system response within the body, and ingesting the allergen typically produces a reaction in multiple organs. A food allergy can be deadly. A food intolerance causes a less severe reaction, is not life-threatening, and the effects are usually limited to the digestive tract.

Generally, people are aware of their allergies, whether it is a common one like tree nuts or a rare one like sesame seeds. However, people may not be aware of their food intolerances. Therefore, if someone shares their restrictions, it’s important to respect them and make a note.

Diets are another contentious subject, and it often leads to arguments. In the U.S., most restaurant meals contain a meat, a carb, and a vegetable, as do many home meals. Suggesting an alternative to this arrangement is often viewed as a challenge to this norm rather than a statement of fact.

Let’s say we’re talking about restaurants to meet up at for dinner with a group of six people. One person has their heart set on trying the new BBQ joint in town. However, two of the group members are vegetarian. Going there means they can only eat maybe half the sides on the menu and none of the entrees. Comments then follow that the vegetarians are killing all the fun and that they made a choice to follow such a strict diet, so the rest shouldn’t be deprived for it.

Followers of any specific diet or those who have food allergies often experience these scenarios. Discussions often turn the situation into their burden to find ways to handle it rather than a collaborative effort. It’s ostracizing.

Instead of making it the burden of one person, let’s work on finding a better solution. Host events with top 8 allergen-free courses. Ask the people with food allergies where they can eat comfortably. Do a Google search to confirm your understanding of vegetarian, kosher, halal, and vegan. Finally, make food inclusive, as it is the center of so many events.

Let’s make a change, STARFLEET.