I don't insist on food either. I'm being paid to provide a service....I'm not a guest.

The majority of my gigs tend to be evening only - and I always eat before I arrive (yes, that may mean a meal at 4pm or a McDonalds en-route) - for one or two (max) days a week....where's the harm?

For all day/part days (which I don't do too many of because despite the pay, they're not my thing), I look after myself. I only ever do one of these a week and again for one day...where's the harm on living on a sandwich/cold pasta and various healthy snacks (nuts, berries etc) for the day?

It's nice to be offered, and depending on what the offer is - I'll take it (self service buffets with chicken under sweaty cling-film...pass!). A hog roast, chip van or similar however....