Food Purchase Policy
The UGA Policy on Purchasing Food
Food includes meals, beverages, and snacks that may be consumed by students, potential students, volunteers and employees. This policy covers the use of institutional funds (all funds held in University accounts) while paying for food.
The Food Reference Chart was created by the University to assist campus with food policy guidance.
Per Diem Rates
The per diem limits should be followed for all meal expenses. If the food purchase exceeds the per diem limits, then a justification will be required and the excess cost may be required to be paid by the individual making the purchase. Itemized receipts are required for all meal related expenses using Student Activity Fees.
| Eligible Meals | Standard Per Diem Rate |
|---|---|
| Breakfast | $13.00 |
| Lunch | $14.00 |
| Dinner | $23.00 |
Food Purchases with Student Activity Fee Funds
Student Activity Fee funds may be used to fund food as part of a sponsored program or event. However, food purchases must be specifically requested and budgeted for any program or activity funded in whole or in part by Student Activity Fees funds or designated as a funded activity. The Student Activity Fee General Guidelines state that food expenditures cannot exceed more than 40% combined allowance (food, travel, promotional) of the allocation and may include additional policies and procedures not outlined in this document.
Food Purchase Documentation
All payments for food purchases must include the following documentation:
- An original receipt or invoice from the vendor with itemized details
- Flyer, email, agenda, or other documentation substantiating that the event was an official event.
- Food Justification Form