Duke Dining Ranked #1 in the Nation for Allergy-Friendly Dining by Spokin
Duke Dining has been named the #1 most allergy-friendly college dining program in the country in Spokin’s 2026 Top 100 Allergy-Friendly Colleges rankings, a national recognition based on reviews from students and families navigating food allergies.
The Spokin platform highlights colleges that provide exceptional resources, transparency, and support for individuals with food allergies, making this ranking a meaningful reflection of the student experience at Duke.
“Creating a safe and welcoming environment for every student is at the core of everything we do,” said Robert Coffey, Executive Director of Campus Services. “This recognition reinforces our commitment to supporting students with food allergies through innovative programs, dedicated spaces, and a highly trained team.”
Duke Dining’s approach to allergen-friendly dining is comprehensive and student-centered, combining operational excellence with personalized support. Key initiatives include:
- Ask Me® Program: A nationally recognized initiative that equips dining team members with the training and visibility to confidently assist guests with food allergies and dietary needs, ensuring support is always accessible.
- FAREcheck Platinum Recognized: Duke Dining’s self-contained locations: It’s Thyme, Marketplace, and Trinity Café, have been awarded FARECheck Platinum status by Food Allergy Research & Education.
- It’s Thyme: Duke Dining’s top-9 and gluten allergen-friendly dining venue, designed to provide a safe and welcoming space free from the top allergens, where students can dine with confidence.
- Registered Dietitian Support: Dedicated on-campus dietitians who work directly with students to provide individualized guidance, education, and resources.
- Clear Ingredient Transparency: Robust labeling systems and digital tools that empower students to make informed dining decisions.
Together, these efforts create an environment where students with food allergies feel supported, informed, and included in the full campus dining experience.
This recognition also reflects the partnership between Duke Dining and its student community. Feedback from students plays a critical role in shaping menus, policies, and programs, ensuring continuous improvement and responsiveness to evolving needs.
As Duke Dining continues to innovate, this milestone underscores its leadership in collegiate dining and its commitment to setting the standard for allergen-friendly practices nationwide.