How to cater to different dietary requirements at your next function

Hosting a successful event requires careful planning, especially when it comes to catering to the diverse dietary needs of your guests. Ensuring that everyone has something delicious and suitable to eat is key to making your event memorable for all the right reasons. Here are some practical tips to help you accommodate various dietary requirements smoothly and effectively.

Understand different dietary needs

Understanding the most common dietary needs is the first step in planning an inclusive menu. Especially for hosts who may not be familiar with certain requirements, it’s important to educate yourself for the sake of your guests. Here are some common dietary categories you might encounter:

• Vegetarian: excludes meat, but may include dairy and eggs.
• Vegan: excludes all animal products, including dairy, eggs, and honey.
• Gluten-free: avoids wheat, barley, rye, and oats unless specified as gluten-free.
• Nut-free: essential for those with nut allergies, which can be life-threatening.
• Dairy-free: excludes milk and dairy products for lactose intolerance or allergies.

There may be other categories of dietary restrictions your guests fall into, so it’s always best to ask each person directly for their specific needs. We will discuss more about how to communicate with your guests later. 

Menu planning

Once you understand the dietary requirements and the needs of your guests, you can begin menu planning. Of course, you may have already started to plan your menu – you don’t necessarily have to do it in this order. However, having your guests’ information to hand means you can liaise with potential caterers to ensure they’re able to fulfil everyone’s requests. Give your vendors as much time and information as possible so they can prepare the ingredients and dishes. This also gives you more time to taste test the menu to ensure that alternative options are just as delicious as the main dishes.

There are also some general guidelines you should follow when it comes to planning your inclusive menu: 

• Diverse options: diversity and choice is key when it comes to catering to different dietary needs. Offer a range of dishes to accommodate various diets: include a hearty vegan salad, a gluten-free pasta, and a vegetarian entrée, for example. You could even create customisable food stations where guests can build their own meals, such as a salad bar or taco station.
• Adapt recipes: just because you need to follow strict dietary guidelines doesn’t mean you have to change your menu entirely. ​​Modify popular dishes to fit dietary needs, such as using almond milk instead of regular milk for a dairy-free dessert. Simple changes like this can go a long way.
• Focus on whole foods: incorporate naturally gluten-free and vegan options like fruits, vegetables, legumes, and grains, which will be suitable for a larger proportion of your guest list.

Communicate with guests

Catering to different dietary requirements isn’t just a case of ensuring everyone has something they’ll enjoy eating – there is also the health and safety aspect to consider. For many people, their dietary requirements aren’t a choice – allergies and other health issues can determine what they can and can’t eat. For example, recent stats tell us that 6% of UK adults have a clinically confirmed food allergy. This is why effective communication is so important. 

The most convenient way to ask your guests about their dietary needs is by adding a comment in the RSVP details. When sending out your invitations, be sure to request information about any dietary restrictions or allergies, and compile this information when they’re returned. As the event approaches, follow up with guests who have specified their dietary needs to confirm their requirements and ensure you haven’t missed out any important details. 

Label clearly

If you’re having a buffet-style service rather than a sit-down meal, labels will be your best friend on the day of the event. They’re critical for a smooth service and to ensure everyone is getting the food they need and want. Labels should include details beyond the dietary category, such as “contains nuts” or “gluten-free”. Use clear, easy-to-read cards so guests can quickly identify suitable dishes.

Double check for peace of mind

When planning your next event, take a proactive approach when organising your catering by always checking for specific allergies or preferences in advance. This shows thoughtfulness and attention to detail, ensuring that everyone feels valued and included; it’s also an important matter of health and safety. By accommodating various dietary needs, you not only enhance the dining experience but also contribute to a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere at your event.