An Allergen-Friendly Destination

At SDSU, we prepare all food with the highest standards of care and cleanliness. However, please be aware that cross-contact may occur, as many of our vendors are third-party and independently operated. We advise individuals with food sensitivities or allergies to please be mindful when enjoying our offerings.

While we strive to minimize cross-contact, please note that certain foods from Aztec Markets, The Terrace, UTK, The Garden Restaurant, and our third-party vendors are considered gluten- and dairy-friendly, not gluten- and dairy-free. Students with food allergies or celiac disease are encouraged to meet with the Aztec Shops Dining and Hospitality Registered Dietitian Amanda Nazario, MS, RDN (aashbynazario@sdsu.edu) for additional information and support.

Allergen Prevention & Safety Measures

At SDSU Dining, we prioritize the safety and well-being of our students with allergies. We understand the importance of providing safe dining options, which is why students with allergies can work closely with our registered dietitian and chefs to create meals that meet their specific needs. From ingredient substitutions to careful meal preparation, we are committed to ensuring every student has a safe and enjoyable dining experience. Follow the steps below if your student has an allergy to ensure proper precautions are taken and meals are prepared with care.

Purple Kits

SDSU Dining is committed to maintaining the highest standards of food safety, particularly for guests with food allergies or dietary restrictions. To prevent cross-contact, we follow strict protocols throughout our food preparation process. A central part of this approach is our use of “purple kits”, a dedicated set of kitchen equipment including knives, cutting boards, pans, and utensils used at University Towers Kitchen and The Garden Restaurant. These tools are exclusively reserved for the preparation of meals free from the top nine allergens. The purple color coding serves as a clear visual indicator to all staff, ensuring that these tools never come into contact with allergenic ingredients. In addition to designated equipment, our staff are trained on allergen awareness and safe food handling practices. Surfaces are thoroughly sanitized before and after use, and separate prep areas are utilized when needed to maintain a controlled environment. Through these measures, we are able to confidently provide meals that are truly allergen-free, offering peace of mind to students and guests with serious dietary needs.

Have A Dietary Restriction or Food Allergy? Follow the Steps Below:

Step 1: Contact our Registered Dietitian

- If you have a food allergy, we encourage you to schedule a meeting with our registered dietitian, Amanda Nazario. Ms. Nazario will work closely with you to ensure all allergy concerns are addressed and meals are tailored to meet your needs. This personalized approach helps provide a safe and enjoyable dining experience. Please book a meeting by using the following link.

Step 2: Meet with our Registered Dietitian

- Once you book a meeting, Ms. Nazario will meet one-on-one with you to discuss your specific allergy concerns. During this personalized meeting, Ms. Nazario will go over your needs and collaborate on ways to ensure they can find safe and enjoyable food options. Together, we will create a plan to address any concerns and help you feel confident and comfortable dining with us.

Step 3: Meet the Chefs at University Towers Kitchen (UTK) or The Garden Restaurant

- After meeting with the registered dietitian, you will have the opportunity to meet with the chefs at UTK or The Garden to discuss their dietary needs in more detail. This meeting will focus on establishing open communication, allowing you to share any concerns and ask questions about food preparation. You will also learn how to order ahead, ensuring that your meals are tailored to your specific allergies and preferences, providing a safe and seamless dining experience.

Step 4: Enjoy Your Dining Experience at SDSU

- With the support of our dietitian and chefs, you can now relax and enjoy their dining experience allergen-friendly. By working together to create safe, customized meal options, we ensure you can dine with confidence, knowing your food is prepared with care. With open communication and careful planning, students can focus on enjoying their meals, worry-free!