Food Allergies
Special Meal Accommodations
Meal substitutions for medical or special dietary reasons.
USDA Regulation 7 CFR Part 15b requires substitutions or modifications in school meals for children whose disabilities restrict their diets. A child with a disability must be provided substitutions in foods when that need is supported by a signed statement from a licensed physician.
In Cases of Food Allergy
When a licensed physician’s assessment notes that a food allergy may result in severe, life-threatening (anaphylactic) reaction, the child’s condition would meet the definition of “disability”. The licensed physician must prescribe the substitutions that need to be made to the meals. Children with food allergies that are non-life threatening may also be considered to have a disability and may also require a meal modification.
Medical Statement for Children with Special Dietary Needs
Each special dietary request must be supported by a statement explaining the requested food substitution and must be signed by a recognized medical authority. The Medical Statement must include:
- An identification of the medical or other special dietary condition which restricts the child’s diet;
- The food or foods to be omitted from the child’s diet; and
- The food or choice of foods to be substituted.
If we do not receive a medical statement from a recognized medical authority, your child will receive a regular lunch tray. Medical statements completed by parents or guardians will not be accepted.
Please email Sarena.Glenn@risd.org any medical statements to request special meals and/or accommodations.