Sourcing locally
Elon Dining is passionate about incorporating local, seasonal ingredients into menus as much as possible. The dining team implemented a preferential purchasing system that identifies food grown or produced within 150 miles as well as its sustainable attributes. Local produce is harvested closest to its peak for a fresher, more flavorful nutrient-filled result. Not only do local foods tend to be fresher, local purchasing reduces transportation carbon emissions and invests money into community-based operations. Look for locally grown signage to taste the best flavors the area has to offer. Elon sources some of dining’s produce from its own backyard at Elon’s Loy Farm.
Regenerative agriculture principles
Beef, pork, chicken, milk, eggs and turkey are sourced from North Carolina farms using regenerative agriculture principles, and certified animal welfare practices. All meats are free of antibiotics, growth hormones and are fed vegetarian diets.
Green Restaurant certification
Since 2022, all three of our dining halls are Green Restaurant Association certified, with McEwen being a three-star ranking. This is meeting efficiency standards in water conservation, waste reduction, sustainable food and pollution reduction.
Waste minimization
Elon composts all pre and post-consumer food waste from each of its kitchens across campus. Diverting food waste to compost decreases Elon’s landfill footprint and contributes to nutrient-rich soil in North Carolina. Since January 2021, Elon Dining diverted 231.5 tons of organic material from the landfill and created 23 tons of compost.
One way to prevent food waste when you’re in the dining halls is to ask to “just try it.” Not sure if you’re going to like something, or you want a smaller portion of what is being served? Ask the server to “just try it” and they will serve you a small portion. Remember, you can always go back for more.
Reusable incentives
Elon Dining makes reusing as easy as possible. Each student with a meal plan is given a reusable to-go container at the beginning of the year for use at residential dining locations. Reusable stainless steel straw packs and camp mugs are available for purchase at Fountain Market. “Choose to reuse” and Bring your own mug or bottle to any campus dining facility to use (and reuse) for coffee and/or fountain drinks.
Compostable disposables
For times when reusables aren’t available, Elon Dining provides 100% compostable silverware, cups, lids, and napkins. Help reduce landfill waste stream by sorting compostables into the correct bins. Look for the green bags.
Recycling
Elon Dining recycles pre-consumer plastic, paper, cardboard and aluminum, and partners with the university to provide post-consumer recyclable options when compostable ones are not available.