No one spends months planning a wedding only to have their guests remember one thing: the gastrointestinal distress. Yet here we are. With recent concerns surrounding Cyclospora and contaminated produce, couples are understandably asking whether they need to rethink their wedding menus. If your wedding is right around the corner and you’ve been dreaming of a beautiful spring salad or an abundant crudité display, don’t panic. You have options.
First things first: take a deep breath. Your caterer has likely been monitoring food safety advisories and already has procedures in place to protect their clients and guests. Professional caterers take food safety incredibly seriously.
That said, your wedding is one of the few events where you’re responsible for creating a wonderful—and safe—experience for the people you love most. This is one of those moments when asking a few thoughtful questions is simply part of good wedding planning.
Start with a Conversation
Schedule a quick conversation with your caterer and ask:
- What steps are you taking in response to the Cyclospora outbreak?
- Are any menu items currently being sourced differently?
- What alternative menu options do you recommend?
- Have you made adjustments to food preparation procedures?
Most caterers will already have a game plan and can quickly walk you through their recommendations.
Consider Menu Adjustments
If you’re comfortable making a few temporary changes, consider removing raw or uncooked produce from your menu. This includes:
- Passed hors d’oeuvres that contain raw vegetables or herbs.
- Crudité and vegetable displays.
- Raw leafy green salads.
- Garnishes that feature uncooked produce.
Instead, consider serving warm or cooked alternatives that are equally beautiful and delicious.
Heat Is Your Friend
Cyclospora parasites are effectively destroyed when food is heated to an internal temperature of 158°F (70°C). Warm appetizers, roasted vegetables, and cooked leafy greens can be wonderful substitutes that still feel elevated and seasonally appropriate. Some delicious alternatives include:
- Roasted vegetable displays.
- Grilled vegetable skewers.
- Warm spinach or kale dishes.
- Seasonal cooked vegetable sides.
- Passed hot hors d’oeuvres.
Your guests won’t miss the salad nearly as much as they’ll appreciate feeling well enough to dance all night.
Communicate with Your Guests
Guest experience is about more than beautiful tablescapes and signature cocktails. It’s also about making your guests feel cared for.
If you’ve made menu adjustments or taken additional precautions, don’t be afraid to share that information.
A simple message on your wedding website or a lighthearted sign at cocktail hour can go a long way.
“We’ve made a few menu updates to keep everyone happy, healthy, and ready to hit the dance floor. You’re welcome.”
The Bottom Line
Could you keep the salad? Absolutely.
Should you have a conversation with your caterer first? Also absolutely.
Wedding planning often involves making thoughtful decisions in response to things outside of our control—weather, travel delays, supply chain issues, and occasionally, rogue parasites hiding in our leafy greens.
At the end of the day, your guests won’t remember that you skipped the Caesar salad. They’ll remember how loved, celebrated, and cared for they felt at your wedding.
And that’s always worth prioritizing.
Love and Soul Always, Kawania