“we want students to be aware of what they are eating and how important what they eat is. Food has significant effects on the body, animals, and the environment, and one cannot be separated from the other two… Knowing the origin of the food on campus is of importance as well. We are working on getting that information.”

As a former long-term vegan (eight years) who now eats a largely plant-based diet (80% greens & cultured veggies) as well as locally raised organic meats and sustainably caught fish, I’m just wanted to put it out there that veganism sure isn’t the way to go for everyone. I got pretty sick as a vegan, unable to get enough B12, healthy bacteria (acidophilus strands via yogurt and kefir), and I became sensitive to soy and gluten (so much tofu and fake meat).

“If God didn’t make it, don’t eat it” — Jack Lalane Veganism and vegetarianism can be quite dangerous when we rely on processed foods, including sandwiches, fake cheeses and butters, and other garbage that tends to clutter the shelves of the local health food store or co-op.

Not to cause a great debate or anything… but here are a few facts:

1) The biggest thing is that there are no vegan centenarians. In fact, vegans tend to have shorter life spans (http://www.lef.org/magazine/mag2006/jan2006_awsi_01.htm).
2) Long-term vegans (especially raw vegans) have unhealthy levels of B12: http://health.ninemsn.com.au/dietandnutrition/nutrition/695434/meat-versus-a-vegetarian-diet
3) Some blood types are better equipped (physiologically) to be vegan or vegetarian, such as those of Type A: (http://www.dadamo.com/bloodtype_A.htm)

Yes, we are trying to bring to attention to the contamination issue. Unfortunately much of the staff aren’t aware of the importance of changing gloves (in the subs case), and don’t understand what vegan means. Thanks for the feedback. If you (or anyone reading this) would like to get involved in our club, please email me at radbod1@umbc.edu .

Thanks to both you and Yasmin for speaking with Chartwells about the issues of veggie/vegan options in the Commons, particularly healthy eating options (e.g. less cream, oil, butter and cheese).

I am not vegetarian/vegan myself, but I’m still hoping for vegan sandwiches, baked potatoes, salad bar, affordable fruit and veggie snacks. The vegetarian items available from Outtakes currently (e.g. bagels, fruit, yogurt, salads) are ridiculously overpriced.

I also hope the issue of hygiene at Mondo Subs will be addressed. They continue to use the same gloves and knives between making meat and veggie based sandwiches. I have seen meat pieces being dropped into the vegetables too. This is not ideal!

Best of luck with the changes!