Event Planners

Food and Beverage Sampling at Events

All events that are distributing food and beverage samples must obtain approval from MCC and Kelber Catering. Exhibitors that distribute food and/or beverage samples during an event and have obtained prior approval from show management must complete a “Convention Center Food Sample Application”.

Show Management has the option to compile all food sampling information and submit a single payment for an event. Exhibitors must check with Show Management prior to completing the application process for approval to offer food samples.

Click on the link below for access to the Convention Center Food Sample Application & Guidelines:

Convention Center Food Sample Application & Guidelines (PDF)

You may pay by check or credit card through our online ordering process. Your application and payment must be received by the Convention Center 15 days prior to the 1st show day for advance rate or standard rate shall apply.

Click the link below and choose the event that you are exhibiting at in order to begin the credit card payment process:

Food Sample Ordering

Submit your completed application to our Exhibitor Services Department either by fax or by mail to:

Minneapolis Convention Center
Exhibitor Services
1301 Second Avenue South
Minneapolis, MN 55403-2781
Fax: 612.335.6600

An additional inspection processing fee will be assessed to show management based on the number of booths that distribute samples during an event.  See current MCC price list for details.

Hand washing stations and 3 compartment sinks may be provided by show management.  Please check with your show manager to ensure proper compliance.

Additional Information:

Food and/or beverage samples may only be distributed directly from an exhibit booth, within the show floor exhibit space.

Food and/or beverages samplings are limited to products manufactured, processed or distributed by the exhibiting company.

Hand washing stations and 3 compartment sinks may be provided by show management. Please check with your show manager to ensure proper compliance.

All items distributed are limited to SAMPLE SIZE:

-Food portions are limited to 2 ounces

-Non-alcoholic beverages are limited to 5 ounces

Alcoholic beverage samples are limited as follows:

-Beer – 3 ounces

-Wine – 1.5 ounces

-Liqueur or Cordials – .75 ounce

-Distilled Spirits – .50 ounce

Exhibitors who wish to distribute alcohol samples from their booth must contact Kelber Catering in advance for fees and regulations involved with sampling under Kelber Catering’s liquor license. Kelber Catering retains the right of final approval on the dispensing of beer, wine or other alcoholic beverages by exhibitors.

Questions? Call 612.335.6550