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November 08, 2005
Letter to the Editor: Vegan options lacking for on-campus dining
I have been a vegan for three years and was a vegetarian for two years before making the leap into veganism. Vegans do not consume meat, eggs, dairy, or anything with animal-derived ingredients. In addition, vegans do not purchase clothing made from animals, such as leather or wool. There are many reasons why a person may become vegan, including human and animal rights, environmental concerns, and one’s personal health. This lifestyle is very important to the people who choose to follow it.
When I came to Hamline, I inquired about the foods in Sorin and was told that it was very “accommodating” for vegetarian and vegan lifestyles. When I arrived I found that campus was not really very veg-friendly. Although a few changes were made in a timely order at Sorin, including the addition of non-dairy ice cream and tofu dogs, thanks to the Hamline University Animal Rights Coalition (HARC), I still go hungry most days.
While Sorin may have some options for vegetarians, it is definitely not suited for vegans. Rice, salad, and pasta do not encompass all of the nutrients needed in a complete, healthy diet. During the beginning of the semester, I became quite ill from lack of nutrients. In the three years I have been vegan, this was the first time it happened. For a short time, I resorted to incorporating small amounts of cheese into my diet, thinking it would make me feel better. However, after one stops eating dairy products for a long time, the body stops producing enzymes that are required to break it down. So while I didn’t have a headache and cough all the time and my eyes no longer hurt, I had an awful stomach ache for days.
I think that is ridiculous. If I paid $ 1,566 for a meal plan, I should be able to eat more than salad (sans dressing) and pasta. While I am pleased that Sorin made a few changes after speaking with HARC, I am disappointed that the soy cheese available at the salad bar still contains a milk ingredient and, for the most part, everything is the same.
More changes need to be made to accommodate those with special dietary restrictions. I think that at least one complete vegan option should be available at each meal. Without protein and a wide variety of vegetables, I am not fulfilling my nutritional requirements, nor am I getting my money’s worth from my meal plan. Meat or cheese can be added separately by those who wish to have it, but I refuse to “just eat around” chunks of meat or “pick off” the cheese.
In addition, vegan food is not more expensive than food for omnivores or vegetarians; beans and rice make a complete protein and are cheap when purchased in bulk. Tofu is an easy addition to many dishes and can be enjoyed by vegans and omnis alike. Many ethnic foods are suitable for people who do not eat meat or dairy. Vegan baking may sound strange to those unfamiliar with it, but it is possible to bake things like cake or muffins without milk or eggs!
I also think that a full list of ingredients should be posted next to each dish. Even though some things are labeled, it is still unclear what is in a number of foods. Labeling all of the foods will also be beneficial to those with allergies and people who abstain from certain foods for religious reasons.
I sincerely hope that the cafeterias at Hamline will become more vegan-friendly soon. I think that with an open mind and a willingness to try new things, this transformation is possible. I know that change takes time, and I look forward to working with HARC and Dining Services to make campus more welcoming to those of us who do not eat animal products.
-Jennifer Larson ‘09
Posted by msveum at November 8, 2005 12:11 PM