<<Disclaimer: Verify this information before applying it to your situation.>> Hi Fran I have absolutely no problem with having a special meal ordered if that's what it takes. Have been on various courses where they provide lunch - ie filled rolls and sandwiches, so I just contact the catering manager at the venue and state my requirements. (IK, I didn't always get so upfront, but a few times with a horrible reaction to something, or starvation, taught me to be stroppy. So, my advice is TELL the boss lady that for you and your colleague to attend on an equal footing with the rest of the staff, some provision must be made for you to eat - even if the restaurant cooks you each an omelette, and you add the salads etc to it (muinus dressings etc). Be stroppy, be strong and that way you get to stay healthy - plus it;'s really important to make people aware of our condition. Good luck Sue Esterman in Wellington, New Zealand (where the sun shines for Xmas) Susan Esterman [log in to unmask] or [log in to unmask] David Esterman [log in to unmask] or [log in to unmask]