The University of North Texas (UNT) is once again setting a high bar for sustainability in its dining services. UNT Dining Services has announced an ambitious objective to ensure that 60% of its campus dining options are plant-based by 2027. This commitment underscores UNT’s dedication to sustainability and health, building on its reputation as a leader in plant-based dining initiatives.
In light of its ongoing efforts, UNT recently earned the No. 2 ranking on the College and University Protein Sustainability Scorecard, which assesses universities’ plant-based dining initiatives across the United States. This national recognition highlights UNT’s successful efforts to offer more plant-based meals and reduce animal product reliance.
Matthew Ward, the executive chef of residential dining at UNT, emphasized the importance of the university’s initiatives in student health and sustainability. “By broadening our plant-based offerings, we’re making it easier for all students to access delicious, nutritious, and environmentally friendly meals,” Ward noted.
Since it welcomed its first patrons in 2011, Mean Greens Café, the country’s first all-vegan university dining hall, has been at the forefront of UNT’s culinary and sustainability advancements. The café serves up to 1,000 patrons daily and has played a crucial role in boosting UNT’s national recognition. It has been ranked 1st in Texas for best college food by Niche.com for the past three years and 2nd nationally by Delish.com.
The Forward Food Pledge, part of UNT’s strategies to enhance its plant-based dining options, is in collaboration with Humane World for Animals. Liz Clark, food service innovation coordinator at Humane World for Animals, commended UNT for its leadership and innovation in sustainable dining. “We’re excited to see how they continue to innovate and set an example for universities nationwide,” she said.
Humane World for Animals, which evaluates and promotes such sustainability initiatives, underscores the need for broader adoption of animal-friendly practices in dining services at educational institutions. Previously known as the Humane Society of the United States, the organization remains at the forefront of efforts to address and reduce animal cruelty globally.
UNT’s commitment to sustainability is a significant step forward, not only in serving the university community but also in setting a benchmark for higher education institutions across the nation to follow.