AVI Foodsystems, PennWest California’s food service provider, takes the extra step to ensure that all students feel included and accommodated when enjoying a meal in the dining hall. With several stations that are each unique to supporting different needs and preferences, students facing allergies or dietary restrictions can comfortably make the most of their college dining experience. 

Executive Chef Jennifer Richmond expressed the goals of PennWest’s dining services.

“Our goal is to create a welcoming and safe environment where everyone can enjoy a variety of allergen-free and alternative food options,” said Richmond.

The Gold Rush Dining Hall menu is posted every morning on Instagram (@calpaeats) and Facebook (@AVI Fresh – PennWest California). Students can also view the entire week’s menu on the dining website (aviserves.com/pennwest), which provides nutrition labels, lists of allergens, as well as vegan and vegetarian preferences. While the menu is subject to change, students with dietary restrictions may find it helpful to plan out their meals with foods that they know are safe to eat. The website has a helpful feature on the right-hand side of the weekly menu view, labeled “My Preferences”. Through this feature, students can select any allergen or restriction, and it will filter out foods that are unsafe for them to eat and display a personalized menu. 

The first station visitors encounter when entering the Gold Rush Dining Hall is the dedicated allergen-free zone. This area of the dining hall is specially designed to accommodate students with gluten sensitivities and other dietary restrictions. 

“You’ll find a selection of gluten-free bread, wraps, bagels, and cereal, along with a toaster that is solely used for gluten-free items to avoid cross-contamination,” Richmond said.

Located in the same allergen-free area, Richmond reports, “We have introduced a new Uproot milk dispenser that offers a range of delicious, mildly flavored alternative milks: soy, almond, and chocolate pea milk. These options are perfect for anyone looking for dairy-free alternatives.”

At the deli station, where students can craft their own sandwich or wrap, Gold Rush provides vegan mayonnaise and sunflower seed butter, a safe and tasty alternative to peanut butter.

Gold Rush Dining Hall’s Clarity station is a one-stop-shop for homestyle, allergen-free meals. Clarity only features entrees that are made free of all nine major allergens. 

“Those with mild to life-threatening allergies can confidently enjoy their meals without worrying about allergic reactions,” said Richmond. “We take extra precautions in preparation, storage, and cooking to guarantee the food is safe for everyone who needs to avoid allergens.”

Roots is a station designed with Vegan and Vegetarian students in mind, prioritizing plant-based protein for healthy, balanced meals. Richmond notes that some popular Roots entrees, including vegan macaroni and cheese, vegan chimichangas and lentil shepherd’s pie.

Students with allergies or intolerances looking for more guidance or information on dining hall accommodations can contact Executive Chef Jennifer Richmond at [email protected] to schedule a meeting.