UK Dining Introduces Worry-Free Zone in the Fresh Food Company

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Sept. 1, 2016) — University of Kentucky Dining has established a Worry-Free Zone inside the Fresh Food Company located in The 90.

The Worry-Free Zone is the only gluten-, peanut-, tree nut- and shell fish-free kitchen on campus.

“Peanut and tree nut allergies in addition to celiac disease and gluten intolerance are the most prevalent on campus so we expanded the special diets menu at this station," said UK Dining Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Lauren McKnight-Ford.

Customers may enjoy flavorful dishes such as Korean barbeque pork loin served with garlic-roasted red potatoes and steamed vegetables and grilled chicken bruschetta served with a baked sweet potato and steamed broccoli. Waffles, cereal and deli sandwiches are also available daily.

The full-time chefs at this station have successfully completed the Gluten-Free Resource Education Awareness Training offered by Beyond Celiac, a patient advocacy organization. The staff has also been trained on food allergy and safety procedures.

All Fresh Food Company customers may choose to eat the dishes prepared in the Worry-Free Zone. However, customers must refrain from bringing in any plates, utensils, cups or food into this area for the safety of those who have a medical need to eat at the Worry-Free Zone.

For more information about the Worry-Free Zone or special diet accommodations please contact UK Dining Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Lauren McKnight-Ford at lauren.mcknight-ford@uky.edu.

UK is the University for Kentucky. At UK, we are educating more students, treating more patients with complex illnesses and conducting more research and service than at any time in our 150-year history. To read more about the UK story and how you can support continued investment in your university and the Commonwealth, go to: uky.edu/uk4ky. #uk4ky #seeblue

MEDIA CONTACT: Blair Hoover, 859-257-6398; blair.hoover@uky.edu