In the 2012 London Olympics, many individuals have been very concerned about the availability of basic provisions such as food and water not only for the athletes, but the increased population that the city would support during the quadrennial event.
One way that the London Olympic Committee has addressed these issues is through an informational leaflet entitled ‘Food Vision’ where there is a statement as to the variety of dietary options available throughout the city. All the food would be clearly labeled and the staff of the Games would be trained as to the possible needs and requirements specific to an individual. The leaflet also reiterates that the organizers of the London Games are committed to providing affordable food choices for all as well as providing healthy and nutritious options for all who come to the city during the Games.
The ‘Food Vision’ has placed specific principles to guide the actions and activities of the staff for the participants and other individuals in the Games. These include advice as to the diverse food option offered at the Games. It further identified that McDonald’s is the only branded food outlet at Games venues but aside from them, there would be other outlets, from kiosks to food court options to fine dining cuisine that would provide unbranded food items. It is projected that McDonald’s would only amount to twenty percent of the total food provision available and in smaller venues, the branding restriction apply and McDonald’s may not even be present.
It further added, “We know from previous Summer Olympic Games that about two thirds of the drinks consumed by visitors will be water or juice. All soft drinks and mineral water available at any Games outlet will be provided by Coca-Cola who are committed to providing a wide variety of drinks including still, sparkling, low and no sugar, 100% juice, water, sports and energy drinks.â€
Other restrictions include a ban on bringing bottles with liquid contents of above 100 ml into venues but one can take an empty water bottle into the venue as there is free water available. For those requiring medication for conditions such as diabetes, there is a need to carry a prescription or doctor’s letter to allow the paraphernalia and medication into event venues. Cosmetics and toiletries, sprays, gels, contact lens solutions are not allowed and baby food and drinks are allowed only within certain containers and quantities. Furthermore, carrying an item declared illegal under United Kingdom law would be escalated to police authorities as there are no storage facilities available for these kinds of items.
As can be seen, going into venues for diabetics to enjoy the London 2012 Games is quite a hassle. When carrying insulin pens or glucometers, it is imperative that one has a medical prescription to carry the same to avoid issues with venue security and staff. As for food options, while bringing in food into venues is deemed prohibited, there are many healthy options available in venues.
