Published Letters and Op-Eds from COK’s Writers Group

Lack of vegan food choices in dining hall disappointing, some customers excluded

Red and Black
February 16, 2009

As a recent graduate of the University, I'm disappointed by J. Michael Floyd's response to his customers' requests for vegan options in the dining halls (Friday's "Students advocate vegan options in dining halls"). There is a clear demand for more plant-based options, and if he continues to ignore students' preferences, he will lose countless customers.

I'm just one of the many students who quit the meal plan after realizing there are not enough options to eat a well-balanced diet as a vegan. University Food Services is excluding students who follow a plant-based diet for reasons related to health, ethics, religion or the environment. Including more vegan options would not only satisfy these people - it would provide healthier meal choices for all students.

Fresh fruits and vegetables and healthy, low-fat foods would not hurt anyone.

But by ignoring the demand for healthful vegan meal options, Floyd is doing a disservice to the University community.

Carrie Mumah
Alumna, Marietta