Hofstra University Dining Service Food Policy and Procedures

PURPOSE: To establish guidelines that assists all of the Hofstra University community when planning events requiring food service. In addition, the policy is intended to minimize the risk involved with the preparation, transport, and holding of food and to reduce University liability. These policy and procedures provide information for consistent and convenient service to the community.

Catering

POLICY: University departments and student organizations planning an event and /or meeting that require food for more than ten (10) people in attendance are prohibited from purchasing food from any off campus source.

PROCEDURE: Arrangements for all catering and student activities are to be made with the Hofstra University Catering Department in the Student Center, room 128; the phone number is 463-5395. Student organizations may select from the Catering Guide or the SGA Express Menu for their events. All groups are to provide a Hofstra University budget number.

Ethnic Food

POLICY: The request to purchase ethnic or specialty food from an off campus source must have prior approval from the Director of Dining Services.

PROCEDURE: Any Hofstra University department or student organization that has received approval from the Director must provide the following documents prior to the event:

• All student groups must have prior approval from the student activities office.
• A completed food policy approval form.
• A hold harmless agreement signed by the vendor.
• A copy of the vendor’s valid insurance certificate.
• A valid Nassau County Board of Health Certificate.
• A list of items to be purchased.

Donations

POLICY: Student organizations may solicit donated products that are not perishable. Donations of perishable food are prohibited, that is any food that is required to be maintained at safe hot or cold temperature. There is no limit on the value of donations.

PROCEDURE: All student organizations planning to solicit off campus donations must first meet with for approval of the Director of Dining Services. Each student organization that has been approved to accept a donation must provide the following:

• All student groups must have prior approval from the student activities office.
• A completed food policy approval form.
• A hold harmless agreement signed by the vendor.
• A copy of the vendor’s valid insurance certificate.
• A valid Nassau County Board of Health Certificate.
• A receipt with the description and value of the donated items.

Potluck Meals

POLICY: Student organizations are permitted to have potluck meals for members on the official roster only. The event or meeting must not be open to the general student population.

PROCEDURE: All student organizations planning to have a potluck meal for members only must first meet with the Director of Dining Services.

Fundraisers

POLICY: Baked products that are prepared at home to use for purposes of fundraising are permitted or Dining Services can provide any student organization planning a bake sale with all of the food products at cost. The complete order will be delivered and set up at the event.

PROCEDURE: All student organizations planning a bake sale or fundraiser must meet with the Director of Dining Services with a budget number.