Choosing the right college can be stressful enough, but if you live with food allergies, it takes extra research and planning. Beyond academics and campus life, your health and safety depend on how well a school can accommodate your dietary needs. Thankfully, many colleges today are more aware and proactive about food allergies and with the right approach, you can find a campus where you’ll thrive safely and confidently.

Start by checking each college’s dining services page for information about allergy-friendly options, ingredient labeling, and dedicated allergen-free kitchens. Some schools partner with organizations like AllerTrain or FARE (Food Allergy Research & Education) to train staff in cross-contact prevention. Many dining halls now stock epinephrine devices for emergencies, and have “Purple Kits” (special purple knives, cutting boards, and utensils used only for allergy-safe meal prep). Reaching out to the dining manager or campus dietitian can help you learn more about their specific allergy protocols. **Also, I always make sure to carry an allergy card with me. Whether I am eating in the dining hall or somewhere off campus, it’s helpful to have a card with my allergies listed to give to dining hall staff or servers. Click here for a card that can be customized with your specific allergies. Keep it with you!

You can also consider checking with the college’s housing and disability support services. I was able to get a housing accommodation for a single room because of my food allergies. I filled out paperwork through my university’s Disability Support Services (DSS), submitted documentation from my doctor, and was approved for a single room to reduce exposure to allergens. In addition to a single room, I asked for and was given a larger dorm fridge so I could store more allergy safe foods. Having my own space gives me peace of mind and allows me to focus on my studies without worrying about shared living environments or accidental allergen contact. While these accommodations are not a guarantee at every university, it doesn’t hurt to ask and look into it if it’s something you feel you need.

Finally, think beyond campus dining. Look into nearby restaurants, grocery stores, and whether there’s an allergy-awareness community or student group. These factors can make a big difference in your day-to-day comfort and confidence. I love the food at the allergy station in the dining hall, but sometimes, I enjoy going off campus to the local grocery store and buying some of my favorite allergy-safe foods and keeping them in my dorm room.

Finding the right college with food allergies takes a little extra effort, but it’s absolutely possible. With clear communication and preparation, you can find a school that supports your education and your wellbeing so you can enjoy the full college experience without worrying about what’s on your plate.

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