Bad Experience W/ Caterers?

[Daxin]

There are a few things I would like to get of my chest.

I am organizing a surf and turf dinner for my co-workers this weekend, and now I am not sure if I am even going to go.

When I asked the caterer if he could add a ONE gluten free plate to the service, I was told there was no provision for that, and it would not be possible. Here's the kicker, I am flying in Lobster from Nova Scotia, and there are going to be steaks. Not a problem! But after I asked for a gluten free meal for myself, I was faxed themenu contract for the rest....Ceaser salad (not gluten-free), strawberry shortcake (NOT gluten-free), garlic bread, (not gluten-free)! DO you all see my frustration?

Here's the other part that drives me even MORE crazy. I am in the Canadian Forces, and these people are contracted out to provide the food services to a whole base. It is not a large base, but I can be reasonably sure that with the percentage of people with this disease, I am not the only one?

Anyone have suggestions or advice as to what I should do?

[minibabe]

Call the catering company and speak with the head person in charge. Tell them that they HAVE to accomodate your diet. that there are more then one people here that have special needs. I would def. just want to speak with a manager. Even if they just boil a lobster for you and keep it on the side. at least it would be somthing.

Good Luck

Amanda NY

[jerseyangel]

I don't blame you for being frustrated! Could you speak to someone higher up and request that they keep a steak, lobster and maybe a baked potato separate? Ask if they could do this first, so that your food would not come in contact with any of the other things they were serving. I hope you can work something out

[Katie O'Rourke]

In the UK here, coeliacs are not allowed to join the armed forces - from what i've heard anyway, mainly because it is too hard to sort out the food for a minority of peopel,a dn the health problems which accompany the disease. I have a similar problem with a work meal I am going to in about 2 weeks - they have organised a meat and a vegetarian option - steak and ale pie with gravy and vegetable stroganoff. Now there's nothing to say the latter wont be gluten-free, but my manager I asked about getting a gluten-free meal was very aplogetic and all but said I will have to bring my own food (the meals are provided free, so everyone else gets a free meal except me which isnt exactly fair). I have yet to ask that if i bring my own food, will the staff heat it up for me. Anyway, I understand just how annoying it is, but I'm just going to buy a gluten-free beef stroganoff from adsa's (same as walmart). So if you get really stuck, I'd advise bringing snacks with you if it's possible. Somtimes it's the only way to ensure what you're eating is safe

[naturalysam]

I must say the your being treated is rediculous. I have been very involved with the Canadian Forces and even my ex is a cook. Its understandable not being able to join if you have celiacs however many of us didnt know till later in life and they should be able to give an option even if it is not the exact same as everyone else. The reason I ended up here is because Im looking for a caterer and baker for my wedding.

Wish me luck

Samantha

[missy'smom]

Ask for some of those strawberries to be set aside and served with icecream and the same romaine lettuce served with other toppings and/or dressing for the salad.

[JNBunnie1]

Ask for some of those strawberries to be set aside and served with icecream and the same romaine lettuce served with other toppings and/or dressing for the salad.

Just so you guys know- these posts are from 2006.