Food Services

Sustainability in Food Services

Trent University Food Services is committed to leading the way in sustainability, employing a variety of innovative practices to reduce environmental impact and promote social responsibility across campus. Through strategic initiatives in waste reduction, sustainable sourcing, and eco-friendly dining options, we are working to create a greener, more sustainable future.

Fair Trade Campus Certification: Since 2014, Trent has been a proud Fair Trade Campus, supporting ethical sourcing practices that benefit farmers and workers in the Global South. All coffee sold on campus (excluding Tim Hortons and Starbucks) is Fair Trade Certified, ensuring that producers receive fair prices and work in safe conditions. Electric City Artisan Coffee is roasted exclusively in Baden Ontario using organic, Fair Trade beans sourced sustainably from around the world.

Green Restaurant Certification:  Trent Food Services has successfully certified three dining halls under the Green Restaurant Certification program, a national standard that evaluates environmental practices in restaurants. Lady Eaton, Gzowski, and Durham Dining Halls are certified, meeting stringent criteria for energy efficiency, waste reduction, water conservation, and sustainable sourcing. These certifications demonstrate our commitment to sustainability in every aspect of food service on campus.

Prioritizing Reusables and Reducing Waste:  A core focus of our sustainability efforts is reducing single-use items. Our Ecotray program has been a major success since its launch in 2015, with 75% of meals purchased being served in either an ecotray or on a china plate. We also encourage the use of reusable travel mugs and coffee mugs, with special discounts available for those who bring their own containers. Composting and waste-sorting stations further help divert waste from landfills, while used cooking oil is collected and recycled for reuse in other industries.

Sustainable Farming & Seafood: We are deeply committed to supporting local farming and sustainable agriculture. Many of the ingredients used in our dining halls come from local farms, including Kawartha Dairy for milk and various local suppliers for produce and meat. The Seasoned Spoon, one of our campus eateries, exemplifies this commitment by growing much of its own food on campus. Additionally, we are proud to offer sustainable seafood options through Chartwell’s participation in the Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch Program, ensuring that we source fish and seafood from suppliers who prioritize responsible practices.

Social Justice through Food: Trent Food Services is also dedicated to creating a positive social impact. Through our partnership with WE Charity, for every meal purchased at select dining halls, we donate a meal to combat food insecurity in Kenya. Since the program's inception, Trent has donated thousands of meals, making a direct impact on children’s health and well-being in Kenya. We also support food security on campus through the Emergency Food Fund, which helps students facing financial hardship.

By embracing sustainability and social responsibility, Trent University Food Services is not only providing healthy and delicious food but also helping to shape a more sustainable, ethical future for all.