Food provision and nutrition support for the Olympic Games

Background: The primary purpose of food provision at the Olympic Games is to ensure the availability of safe, appealing food that is suitable for attendees of various ages, cultural and religious backgrounds, food preferences, and performance needs. The evolution of catering for the Olympic Games presents a fascinating snapshot of global food preferences, cultural eating styles, food safety issues, the role of performance nutrition, and the development of nutrition support by dietitians. Content overview: This presentation will draw on past history and global events as well the extensive experience of the presenters to address current and future challenges such as the impact of COVID-19 on food provision and catering for the Olympic Games. Topics to be covered include the implementation of nutrition support and dietetic involvement at the Olympic Games, strategies to manage the food and nutrition program from the perspective of an Olympic food program manager, and the challenges faced in providing nutrition support to athletes by the Australian team dietitian. Current issues such as the impact of COVID-19 on catering will be discussed. Evidence base: A recent meta-synthesis review found limited primary research studies relevant to this topic area, with most conducted in the past 20 years since the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games. Therefore, this presentation will draw on empirical data, grey literature such as official reports, and the presenters’ own professional experience in working at the Olympic Games. Strategies for audience engagement: There will be a panel discussion with audience questions.