From a wise man on another thread; works well for both shades of blue:

Originally Posted by oldmako
Simply inquire if your meal has been boarded as YOU board the plane. If the answer is in the neg make ONE call to ops to check on catering. If they drop the ball stroll into the terminal and secure food. Ignore watch and CSR. Remember to keep your receipt.

The more guys do this, the sooner the problem goes away.