A Campus For Foodies?

Photo credit: Jonathan Rausseo

I recently got into a conversation about the quality of food on campus with a colleague. I know that I was defending a losing battle but I do want to mention a couple of highlights... or milestones.

The campus has become a bottled water free place. I know this seems like a water issue but it is related to food. Increasing the number of fountains on campus does in fact increase access to water. No word yet though as to whether people are buying more unhealthy things (like soft drinks) instead.

We are experimenting with mobile food. This year marked the arrival of the Soup Truck on campus. Yummy local, organic treats located halfway between classes. Easily one of my favourite things.

More interesting food options. I don't just mean the addition of Quiznos and Bento Sushi, but even in the Café Écolo there was a nice change of pace with local artisan bread for the sandwiches.

The continuation of the community gardens on campus. This year we have found a more stable home for the plots and there is still a good chance that we will have mobile plots added to the campus.

And in the works... the fair trade campus certification of course. Not to mention that the Nutritional Program on campus has been doing a whole bunch of consulting on campus to help improve our food options.

Of notable absence though....

More farmers markets

Sustainably harvested Seafood certification

More veggy alternatives

More nutritional labeling

We have come a long way but there is always more we can do. The SFUO is looking to make sustainable food options their primary focus this year. That means a greater focus on food related issues and services. I often wondered if we could ever get to the point where our campus would become a hot spot for foodies. After all, there are many places in the States where jut just a thing is the case. So come on all you foodies out there, what do we need to do to make this campus more... eatable?

-jon

http://thesustainabilitree.blogspot.com