When Food Safety Fails

The Cost of Overlooking Allergies

The Stand-Up December 10, 2024 Edited by Miguel Neves View in browser Hi there,   Dominique Brown, a beloved social media creator, lost her life after a reported allergic reaction at a recent event in Los Angeles — a devastating reminder that food safety is more than a checklist; it's a matter of life and death.   This tragedy is reigniting an uncomfortable but urgent conversation: Are we doing enough to protect guests with food allergies?   Food allergies are not just the kitchen's problem. They're an industry-wide issue that touches every part of event planning. Who's responsible for allergy protocols? Are the right people trained? Is the menu transparency more than skin-deep, or do "may contain" labels get slapped on as a catch-all?   The list of allergens is short, but the margin for error is razor-thin. With high-profile cases like this one and new state legislation pushing for stricter protocols, it's clear that action — not just awareness — is long overdue.   From EpiPen access to cross-contact protocols, planners have more control than they think. But control only works if it's used.   Have you made changes to your allergy protocols recently? What's missing from the industry's approach? Hit reply and share your thoughts — we'd love to hear them.   Top Stories Influencer's Death Highlights Food Allergy Dangers at Events Influencer Dominique Brown died after suffering a reported food allergy at an event in Los Angeles. How can you prevent something like this from happening?  Radisson Individuals Aims to Meet Demand for Local Character in Upper Upscale Hotels Created collaboratively with Choice Hotels Travelers are increasingly prioritizing authentic experiences over cookie-cutter luxury travel. Choice Hotels has relaunched Radisson Individuals to cater to this demand with accommodations that fuse local elements with upper upscale amenities. Economic Uncertainty and AI to Shape 2025 Business Events Economic uncertainty and inflation are key challenges for business events in 2025, particularly in LATAM and EMEA countries, according to BCD Meetings & Events' What's Trending 2025 report. Uncover the best ideas, innovative strategies, and standout successes from this year's top business events. Get inspiration for your events from the six outstanding business events featured. Register to watch the recording on demand. The Best Business Events of 2024: Behind the Scenes Skift Meetings' Best Business Events of 2024 was a celebration of game-changing event concepts that have shaped our industry this year. Kids at Conferences — Inclusive or Impractical? Allowing kids at conferences fosters inclusivity and belonging, but safety protocols, liability insurance, and background screenings are a must.  C2's CEO on Intentional Design and Orchestrated Serendipity There's nothing like hanging 30 feet in the air or baking lasagna with total strangers to get people to connect – and both were activities at this year's C2. WOMEN LEADERS IN MEETINGS Monique Ruff-Bell Monique Ruff-Bell exemplifies leadership at TED rooted in strategic vision, emotional intelligence, and bold thinking. She balances vision with empathy, inspiring others. Searching for New Luxury Hotels Just Got Easier The founders of New Hotel Guide say they're in the detective business, researching new luxury hotels before they even make it onto the map. Why Is Everyone Ghosting Each Other? From dating apps to employment websites, ghosting is the new normal – and now it's becoming standard practice between meeting planners and suppliers. Four Ways the Trump Administration Could Impact Medical Meetings Robert F. Kennedy is promising big changes to the healthcare industry if he is confirmed as Secretary of Health and Human Services. When it comes to medical meetings, plenty is at stake. MEETINGS INNOVATOR Mary Jo Blythe Forever changing the lives of front-line hospitality workers – one person at a time – is Mary Jo Blythe's mission as founder of The Above and Beyond Foundation. Meetings Innovator is sponsored by Stova More From Skift Meetings 5 Skills You'll Need to Rise in Your Association Harris Rosen, Founder of Rosen Hotels, Dies at 85 How Can Color Elevate an Event Experience? The Challenge of Non-Exhibiting Suppliers at Trade Shows Independent Planners Voice Need for More Support Olympic Lessons in Sustainability, Safety, and Innovation How to Make Meetings Simpler for Exhibitors Created collaboratively with Stova To ensure there are no pauses in our communication, please add our email address to your contacts: meetings@skift.com. Skift, 35 W 31st St., Frnt 1, New York, NY 10001, USA, (516) 399-0304 Manage preferences