A reader writes:
My workplace is doing a potluck for Thanksgiving. We’re an organization with simply over 100 folks. I’ve dietary restrictions, so I requested if there could be a sign-up so I’d know upfront if I might eat something. HR declined, saying they don’t need folks to really feel pressured to carry something.
However … that’s the entire level of a potluck. In the event that they don’t wish to strain folks to carry meals, they need to cater it. I’m additionally involved about meals security, as I’ve had unfavorable reactions to potluck meals earlier than. My present plan is to simply eat a meal beforehand and convey some roasted potatoes.
Is there a degree at which an organization is massive sufficient {that a} potluck is only a unhealthy concept? Or am I overreacting?
Your potluck is being unusually run, however I don’t suppose it’s due to your organization’s dimension.
In the event that they’re going to carry a potluck, it is smart to supply a sign-up sheet the place folks can be aware what they plan to carry so that you simply don’t find yourself with 20 potato salads, 50 packs of napkins, and nothing else. (Really, I might be delighted to eat a meal of 20 completely different potato salads, however it’s in all probability not what most individuals are going for.) Together with a sign-up doesn’t actually amp up the strain on folks to carry one thing; it simply makes issues extra organized and fewer more likely to lead to day-of chaos.
And sure, in the event that they’re involved about pressuring folks to take part, they need to certainly simply cater it. Individuals typically do really feel pressured to take part in potlucks. Different folks love them, in fact! But when they’re this involved a few sign-up sheet inflicting strain, catering is the best way to go.
That mentioned, I don’t know {that a} sign-up sheet would have helped upfront in case you’d be capable to eat something — because you wouldn’t know what shocking elements folks may be placing of their mashed potatoes. (Though I suppose in case you noticed one thing quite simple listed, like a fruit platter, you would possibly fairly guess that may find yourself being secure.)
Actually, although, dietary restrictions and potlucks is usually a robust combine, except your office is vigilant about requiring correct ingredient playing cards with every dish. Even in case you do, relying on the character of your dietary restrictions and particularly in the event that they’re strict, I nonetheless may be cautious, as a result of persons are notoriously allergy-unaware and much too many individuals will faithfully write out all of the elements their cookbook listed for the recipe however not add that they at all times add their very own sprint of paprika for coloration, or declare their lentil soup is vegetarian with out considering to say they used hen inventory in it.
And that’s earlier than we get into your concern about meals security. Typically if you wish to get pleasure from a potluck, you must intentionally not suppose too arduous about your coworkers’ hygiene practices or how sanitary their kitchens may be. If sanitation/security is a tough restrict for you, potlucks are a tough proposition.
Your plan to eat a meal beforehand is nice, or you would carry one thing that you simply’ll get pleasure from and that shall be filling sufficient for you even in case you don’t eat the rest there.