For the second year in a row, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals named Ohio University one of the most vegetarian-friendly campuses in the U.S.
Its Web site, peta2.com, lists OU's tofu scramble croissants, faux Philly sandwiches and vegan chicken parmesan as meals that are attracting attention from vegans and vegetarians.
PETA chose OU based on feedback from students and its own research, said Ryan Huling, a media contact for PETA. OU offers delicious and creative options, he said.
OU does not have many vegans or vegetarians, so Dining Services tries to please those few who are, said Executive Chef Matt Rapposelli, adding that OU now offers meals that include vegan cheese (that melts), turkey and sausage.
At the beginning of the quarter, Dining Services receives many comments from students - mostly concerned freshman - about vegan and vegetarian options, but comments become more sporadic as the year continues, Rapposelli said.
There will always be at least one vegan or vegetarian (entrée each meal)
he said, adding that Dining Services frequently offers Indian cuisine since it is
often vegetarian.
However, in an effort to attract more students, Dining Services does not always label vegan or vegetarian options. If we label something vegetarian or vegan they won't even look at it Rapposelli said. Many students are afraid to step out of their comfort zone,
he said.
I don't really like meat that much so I would rather have (a vegetarian option)
said Michelle Lagree, a senior studying nutrition, adding that West 82 offers more variety for vegans and vegetarians than the dining halls.
Ahmed Elmahdi, a fifth-year senior studying political science, is gradually converting to vegetarianism and said he does not see many available food options, pointing to a tofu eggplant sandwich that he described as pretty terrible.
The first round of the most vegetarian-friendly campus contest ends on Nov. 2. People can vote on peta2.com, and the site will announce a winner on Nov. 23.
To win the competition, OU must beat out 32 other colleges and universities, including two other Ohio institutions, Oberlin College and Case Western Reserve University.
OU placed sixth in the competition in 2008.
cb119506@ohiou.edu
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Caitlin Bowling
