Veg Out: The U of M's Veg-Friendly Dinner

By Nicholas Orth

On November 25 the University of Minnesota residential cafeterias hosted Veg Out, a vegetarian themed dinner. All six dorms participated, featuring unique vegetarian and vegan dishes, displaying vegetarianism- and CAA- related information, and allowing volunteers to set up literature tables. The Veg Out capped weeks' worth of collaborative efforts between myself and University Dining Services (UDS).

The end result was that UDS' newfound respect for the growing student demand for humane and healthy food choices.

The night's menus' veg-friendly selections included Moroccan stew with couscous, chili, Bolognese sauce with pasta, tofu barbecue pizza, Cantonese vegetable and tofu lo mein, mock buffalo chicken wings, and various fruits and vegetables. It was delicious, and many students CAA spoke to, including omnivores, thoroughly enjoyed the meal. Some students had questions about the dietary completeness of the meal, but the overall student reaction was positive and one of gratitude for tasty food options that are not only good for the consumer, but good for the world.

Volunteers tabled outside of all six cafeteria entrances, supplying students with literature, answering questions, and handing out hundreds of leaflets and vegetarian starter kits. All cafeterias were also supplied with CAA "table tents" filled with information about the organization and facts supporting the ethical and nutritional integrity of a vegan diet. These efforts, in combination with an impressively veg-friendly menu, resulted in a successful night of animal advocacy. University Dining Services has expressed interest in hosting more Veg Nights in the future. With any luck CAA can make this a once-a-semester event.