Ball State students request faster foodservice for dietary restrictions

Some students at Ball State University who have dietary restrictions say it’s hard for them to grab a quick meal on the Muncie, Ind., campus.

In a story by Ball State Daily, students with dietary needs say that the extra time needed for staff to prepare their food makes it hard to enjoy a meal before class and that it also causes longer line wait times.

“The staff have to wash their hands and prepare the gluten-free food, which can take a while and can create a sense of impatience,” a student with celiac disease told Ball State Daily. “I’ve always felt that people would be upset at me because I was holding up the line.”

While receiving their meals may take longer, students with dietary restrictions do have a variety of food options available. Around 35% of meals served at Ball State are vegetarian, 23% are for vegans, and about 70% of the items are gluten-free, according to Karen Adkins, director of dining services and dining initiatives.

“Making these options available without the need for additional accommodation adds convenience to mealtime,” Adkins said. “Many of our locations focus on custom-built items. Many students with individual dietary needs are able to find safe variety from our existing menus. For example, delis that make custom sandwiches or salads offer a dairy-free cheese in their everyday list of choices.” 

Related:Campus dining halls go gluten-free

Adkins also says that the school works one on one with students who have dietary needs by offering meals for pickup that are prepared just for them.

Read the full story via Ball State Daily.