WMSC Dietary Policy

The USC Wrigley Marine Science Center is in a remote location with limited access to products, equipment, and other resources. As a result, we are only able to consistently accommodate vegetarian* and vegan* dietary restrictions. We will also do our best to accommodate specific food allergies. However, for the safety of our guests, we strongly recommend that individuals with severe allergies** (such as celiac disease or peanut allergies) bring their own food, as we cannot always prevent food cross-contamination in our kitchen. Please communicate this to your group.

Lifestyle choices: We cannot guarantee accommodations for those who choose to avoid certain foods for lifestyle reasons or personal preference (e.g., gluten-free diets, low-carb diets, etc.). We offer gluten-free bread and basic gluten-free options but cannot provide daily specific gluten-free meals for a large number of guests. A refrigerator/freezer and microwave are available in the dining hall for guests who wish to bring their own food.

Faith/cultural based: Unfortunately, due to our remote location and supply limitations, we are not able to maintain a kosher or halal kitchen**. We commit to offering multiple protein sources for those who do not eat pork or certain seafood. If, for some reason, a meat option of your choosing is not available, a vegetarian/vegan option will always be available for each meal. If you are fasting during regular kitchen hours in observance of your faith/cultural beliefs, we will be happy to provide to-go meals that can be reheated at other times.

Shipping food to WMSC: We strongly discourage guests from shipping groceries to WMSC or to our boat at Southern California Marine Institute (SCMI), as we cannot guarantee the availability of refrigeration or other safe, secure storage. In addition, a charge will be added to your invoice to cover handling fees for food. Instead, you may purchase food supplies through the WMSC Dining Hall. Please contact the Hospitality Manager (kennithc@usc.edu) for details. Alternatively, please bring groceries with you on the boat or plan to rent a vehicle and obtain groceries in Avalon.

*Vegetarian: does not consume animal meat, but may consume other animal products, such as dairy, eggs, or honey. Vegan: does not consume any animal products.

**When necessary, we can arrange to have frozen meals available. Two weeks’ notice is required and additional fees may apply.