Policy
BYU Dining Services complies with the Church Educational System (CES) Honor Code, which states that members of the BYU community should “abstain from alcoholic beverages, tobacco, tea, coffee, vaping, and substance abuse”. Dining Services does not interpret the Word of Wisdom in greater detail than stated in the CES Honor Code. Individuals have the right to their own beliefs and every person should be honored in their station, with respect and deference. It is not the role of Dining Services to determine the benefits or harmful effects of added food nutrients, additives, or caffeine.
Procedures
1. Dining Services will not sell products that list green tea or coffee extracts on their ingredient statement.
2. Due to the ever-changing nature of the beverage market, all new beverage categories must be approved by the managing director prior to being sold to customers.
3. Coffee and/or tea service may be authorized from BYU Dining Services for visiting campus guests on certain occasions. Prior to the provision of coffee and/or tea service, written approval must be given by (1) the responsible dean or vice president over the college/unit requesting the service and (2) Dining Services’ managing director and vice president. Only requests for service at small gatherings will be approved. During the approved event, BYU Catering employees will diligently ensure that the coffee and/or tea service is exclusively restricted to the designated guests visiting the campus.
Additional Information
Revision History
- 8/16/2026: Reviewed, revisions made to reflect the need for vice president approval for coffee exceptions.
- 3/18/2025: Reviewed, no revisions made.
- 3/7/2024: Added procedure for review of new beverage categories.
- 8/7/2023: New policy approved by the Dining Executive Team. This policy is based on version in 2021 handbook, and adds procedures on coffee/tea service.