by EMMA GABBERT, CSU Public Relations Assistant
Making the “Orange Apple” choice when dining on campus may help you be more mindful of healthy food options, said the University’s new dietitian, Lizzie Rummel.
Rummel said the menu items marked with the day’s Orange Apple “means that dish is mindful or dietitian-approved. These foods are lower in calories, fat and sodium.”
Across campus, University Dining at Minnesota State University Mankato provides a range of healthy meal and snack options as well as dedicated allergen-free stations for students with dietary restrictions.
For students with a meal plan, the University Dining Center has multiple symbols to indicate specialized menu items such as; allergens, vegan and vegetarian options.
“In the dining center, we have a station called Simple Servings. It’s free of seven of the most common eight allergens. So, that includes; shellfish (regular fish is still served), peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, milk, eggs, and soy,” Rummel said.
This station also caterers to students with type-1 diabetes or a flavor sensitivity issue.
Elsewhere on campus, the Centennial Student Union offers healthy food options in the MavAve Food Court. choices for healthy food.
Among the choices, Rummel said Toss in the CSU is a build your own salad bar with a variety of vegetables, lean proteins, and select seasonal fruits.
An alternative to the salad bar is Star Ginger, a new eatery in the CSU lower level. They serve fresh produce, and meals with an oriental flair.
The Union Grill has gluten-free buns for students with an intolerance to wheat. However, Rummel stresses that students with serious dietary restrictions may choose the new dining center where kitchen facilities offer greater control of cross contamination.
For those with a busy schedule, Minnesota State University, Mankato offers the Simply-to-Go program. Here, students can find easy-to-eat protein snacks such as cheese sticks, hard-boiled eggs, and yogurt. Selections also offer pre-packaged salads and sandwiches for on-the-go students.
While there are various dining options for students without dietary restrictions on campus, Rummel said efforts will continue to develop healthy menu options that accommodate the needs of all students.
