Food Service Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

ÀóÖ¦ÊÓÆµ has determined that serving 50 or more meals is beyond the scope of ÀóÖ¦ÊÓÆµ responsibilities to ensure proper food handling and food safety.  Anytime meals are “Self-Cateredâ€� or purchased and served directly by ÀóÖ¦ÊÓÆµ employees, ÀóÖ¦ÊÓÆµ assumes the responsibility and liability for the food.  Caterers that ÀóÖ¦ÊÓÆµ contracts with (pre-approved or when ordered through a requisition) are required to provide proof of their latest heath inspection, certified training in safe food handling/serving, assume the liability for providing their food, and insure the University.

Any meal being prepared and delivered to (Self-Catering) and/or served by a supplier (Catering Service) at a ÀóÖ¦ÊÓÆµ location regardless of the number of people attending the event.  This includes meals picked up by individuals and brought to a ÀóÖ¦ÊÓÆµ location.  Only preapproved caterers can setup and serve food at a ÀóÖ¦ÊÓÆµ location. 

A meal is defined as any cold or hot food being prepared and served at a ÀóÖ¦ÊÓÆµ location including pizza. 

No, they are not considered meals and would not fall under the “Food Serviceâ€� designation.  A hospitality form is still required.

No, the list is not closed and any new caterer who meets ÀóÖ¦ÊÓÆµâ€™s requirements and would like to join can do so.  The caterer needs to reach out to ÀóÖ¦ÊÓÆµ Procurement Services by emailing purchasing@csulb.edu to begin the approval process.

No, however, the department will need to submit a requisition for the caterer they are interested in using.  The caterer will be vetted by procurement and must meet ÀóÖ¦ÊÓÆµ contracting, insurance, and catering requirements.

Yes.

  • Self-Catering Option (49 meals or less):   A ProCard may be used for these purchases and is the preferred method.  However, Direct Pay and Employee Reimbursement options are also acceptable.  An approved hospitality form is required. 
    • What if a caterer (supplier) requires a contract be signed? If the caterer (supplier) requires a signed contract, you will need to submit a requisition to Procurement Services following the Catering Option identified below.
  • Pre-Approved Caterers and Food Trucks (from the pre-approved list):  A ProCard is the only approved payment method for any supplier from the pre-approved caterer list. 
  • Catering Option for 50 meals or more or the caterer is not on the pre-approved list:  An approved requisition is required and must be submitted to Procurement Services.  Normal payment method is check/EFT, but Procurement Services may authorize a payment exception allowing use of a ProCard.  If Procurement Services grants an exception, the department will be notified of the exception.

If the food is being delivered/served at a ÀóÖ¦ÊÓÆµ location, yes the policies apply.

The Food Service policies apply to on-campus food services being performed.  Any services being performed off-campus would follow the off-campus services policies including review of any contractual documents by Procurement.