As a menopausal woman my ranting can be attributed to a meno-rage. I may get some back talk from writing about this issue, but I feel compelled to vent. When did meetings start requiring food as part of the agenda? When did bringing snacks for a meeting become acceptable? Why do I have a file on who can eat what?
If I have to listen to one more person go on and on about their food allergies and food issues and have to try to order or prepare snacks, lunch or dinner with or for them, I will crack! Please note: If you have various food issues do not make a meeting for lunch, dinner or over coffee. Make your diet restrictions clear before someone goes to a lot of trouble preparing food. Remember a meeting is perfectly acceptable with-out food and beverages. Let me repeat myself, a business meeting is acceptable with-out food and beverage consumption. No one will perish from thirst after a 60 or 90 minute meeting.
I understand that many people must adhere to a gluten free diet. I feel badly for the people with the food allergies to peanuts, red dye, corn, legumes, shell fish, strawberries, etc. I respect those people who are vegan and vegetarians because of their moral beliefs. I admire those who for medical and health reasons are vegans and vegetarians. I am akin to people who have a restricted diet for religious beliefs. I am compassionate with the diabetics.
All I am saying is that the few of us left who can and do eat freely at will don’t want to be coveted, hear sanctimonious lectures, or starred/drooled at our food choices. Meetings can start and conclude before or after a meal time. If snacks are present, if some one brought in some thing special, eat it or don’t, but continue to work. The sooner we can effectively conclude the meeting the sooner we can eat food and drink beverages of our own choices!