Aramark pilots Cool Food Meals program at 10 universities

Starting this semester, Aramark-run dining operations at 10 universities across the country will use the World Resources Institute’s Cool Food Meals badge to call out menu items that carry a lower carbon footprint.

The badge will appear alongside approximately 350 Aramark dishes served on campus, including a Mediterranean Falafel Plate, Five Spice Sesame Tofu Salad Bowl, and Roasted Beet and Goat Cheese Sandwich.

“Our own research has shown that 60% of consumers want to reduce their meat intake,” Jack Donovan, president and CEO of Aramark’s Higher Education division, said in a statement. “Our 350 Cool Food Meals recipes use less beef and lamb, so we are meeting our guests’ desires, as well as making these items climate-friendly.”

Schools participating in the pilot include Arizona State, Florida State, University of Mississippi and Western Washington University.

Aramark says it is the first contract feeder to employ the Cool Food Meals badge.