LINCOLN, Nebraska (KOLN) – Moxie’s, the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s gluten-free cafe, received Gold status in April from Food Allergy Research and Education (FARE) for its exceptional accommodation of food allergies.

FARE, the nation’s leading food allergy advocacy group, conducts rigorous audits to evaluate the safety protocols of food service establishments. These audits evaluate the entire process, from ordering and receiving ingredients to preparing and serving meals.

Ellyn McCarter, a nutritionist in UNL’s campus cafeteria, said she was pleased with the recognition and its wider impact.

“We’re really excited about Moxie’s and the recognition from FARE. I think this is something we want to spread to other campuses as well. It’s about the concept of inclusive options for food service,” said Ellyn McCarter.

Key protocols that contributed to Moxie’s Gold status include a designated seating area where outside food and beverages are prohibited, a dedicated HVAC system, careful screening of incoming products, special storage measures, and extensive training for all employees on food allergies.

Moxie’s serves both students and the public and provides a safe dining environment for individuals with food allergies, a growing problem in typical restaurant settings.

“We know that celiac disease is on the rise, not just in celiac disease, but in gluten-free diets. You could have another condition, like irritable bowel syndrome, and then you need to be on a gluten-free diet. And this is a great way to accommodate everyone,” McCarter said.

In addition to Gold status, UNL’s dining service also received an honorable mention from FARE for Best Campus Dining thanks to its extensive accommodation options.

McCarter encourages other food service establishments to conduct self-inspections to better serve people with food allergies.

“If someone with a food allergy came into your facility, would your staff know what to do? Would you know what to do? Would you have the equipment to meet that need so you know where you stand and can set goals down the road to be more inclusive,” McMcarter said.

To learn more about Moxie’s and other inclusive restaurants on the UNL campus, visit dining.unl.edu.

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