Policies and Procedures

Policies and Procedures

Pita chips, veggies and hummus dip

State Sales Tax


Nebraska state sales tax is applied to all food service events at the current rate of 7.25% + 2% occupational tax. Please let your catering sales representative know if your group has tax exempt status.

Leftover Food


We plan your event(s) so there will be minimum food waste. No food or beverage may leave the premises. Buffet meals will be maintained for no longer than 1.5 hours unless arrangements are made in advance. For health and safety reasons no food or beverage(s) are permitted from outside vendors with the exception of special event cakes.

Cancellations


All cancellations must be called into the catering office, 402-472-8161, at least three (3) business days prior to your event to avoid any charges. In the event of inclement weather, University Catering adheres to the following policy: If the University of Nebraska-Lincoln is closed, all catering events will be automatically canceled.

Ten-day Lead Time


We require a minimum of ten days to receive your:

  • Desired menu (due to preparation logistics and the potential need for special orders)
  • Dietary accommodations
  • Event count changes (limits excessive inventory and helps us reduce food waste)

No To-Go Meals


It is prohibited for customers to take away food from any University Catering event buffet.

Last-minute Catering Requests


We will not be able to cater for any unexpected event without at least a three-day lead time. In the case of a last-minute catered event, the University Catering team will have discretion over the menu and what is served.