UNIVERSITY OF BIRMINGHAM: DRIVING INSTITUTIONAL IMPACT THROUGH FOOD
UNIVERSITY OF BIRMINGHAM: DRIVING INSTITUTIONAL IMPACT THROUGH FOOD
UNIVERSITY OF BIRMINGHAM’S COMMITMENT TO SUSTAINABILITY:
At the core of our discussion with Shaun was the University of Birmingham’s impressive commitment to sustainability, which aims to reduce the environmental impact of its food, beverage, and retail services. These efforts align with the University’s goal to achieve net zero carbon emissions; Scope 1 & 2 by 2035 and Scope 3 by 2045. A key part of this strategy involves sourcing sustainable produce, minimising waste, and mapping Scope 3 emissions from food and catering, which produced an estimated 271 tonnes of CO₂e in 2023/24.
The sustainable food agenda has always been important to the University of Birmingham, we recognise the importance of providing healthy food and the environmental, economic, and social impacts surrounding food systems. Moving to more sustainable food systems will have a positive impact on the current ‘climate’ and ‘biodiversity’ and meet the needs and expectations of our stakeholders. This approach will hopefully address the wider impacts of our food systems and address the positive contribution we can make in this area.
UoB Food Fellows are proud that today every dish, of which include products from Eat Curious, on our green events menu is A-rated, which means it has as a CO2 equivalent value below 500g; the average UK meal has 1.7kg. Over 25,000 delegates are due to dine on our new carbon A-rated dishes by the end of August 2025 saving over 25 tonnes of carbon compared to the old menu.
It was UoB’s sustainability efforts and the environmental factors surrounding ingredients that initially drew the University of Birmingham to Eat Curious products. Red meat is responsible for about 150 percent more emissions than chicken or fish. By 2024 we will reduce animal protein derived in all our recipes by 50%. The environmental and nutritional impact of our decisions are the driver as we increase the use of natural plant-based ingredients in our recipes as a more sustainable source of protein than that from animals.
Incorporating sustainability into menu planning and ingredient sourcing is not just a trend but a vital strategy for the future of the food industry. It benefits the environment, supports local economies, meets consumer demand, and can even improve your bottom line.
HOW HAVE YOU INTEGRATED EAT CURIOUS PRODUCTS INTO YOUR MENUS?
The university has implemented a variety of Eat Curious products into their menus, from the core range of Eat Curious Dehydrated Mince and Pieces to Chickpea Tikka Masala and Three Bean Chilli, part of the latest Meal Solution range.
Eat Curious are now our stand-alone nominated plant-based protein supplier.
Amid rising industry expectations to achieve sustainability targets, the university has embraced innovative solutions like hybrid dishes to help reduce its carbon footprint. Within our menus we use individual products but also incorporate Eat Curious plant-based protein into blended dishes with meat products. We are committed to reduce ruminant meat products by 50%. We have incorporated and developed Eat Curious Dehydrated Mince and Pieces into our burgers and ready to eat dishes using a 50/50 split of meat and plant-based products. The developed dishes have proven to be a fantastic final product, and without stating the use of a plant-based product within the dish, it would be very difficult to detect.
WHAT INTERNAL SUSTAINABILITY GOALS HAVE YOU MET BY USING EAT CURIOUS PRODUCTS?
Eat Curious products provide a practical solution for UoB, as we are aiming to reduce the University’s environmental impact and cater to diverse dietary needs. The ingredients within Eat Curious products have a much lower carbon footprint compared to animal-based protein which helps reduce overall carbon emissions and meet sustainability targets. Through the University’s procurement provider we input all recipes containing Eat Curious products to calculate and showcase the carbon savings of their products, helping Food Fellows track and demonstrate their sustainability efforts.
HOW HAVE EAT CURIOUS PRODUCTS HELPED MANAGE FOOD COSTS?
Eat Curious products have provided a practical and economical solution for our operations, helping to manage costs while offering high-quality, allergen-free, and sustainable food options. They are made from cost-effective ingredients which are generally less expensive than animal-based proteins and can help reduce overall food costs.
Shaun also explained that not only are Eat Curious products typically cheaper than meat, they have also offered UoB’s catering teams several advantages in terms of storage and preparation: The core Eat Curious range has a long shelf life and can be stored at room temperature, reducing the need for refrigeration and freezer space. Eat Curious products are versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, allowing for more flexible menu planning and an efficient use of ingredients.
By incorporating Eat Curious products, UoB can offer healthier and more sustainable menu options. This can attract a broader customer base, including those with dietary restrictions or preferences for plant-based foods, potentially increasing sales and reducing costs associated with catering to diverse dietary needs.
HOW HAS UTILISING EAT CURIOUS PRODUCTS HELPED UoB MANAGE DIETARY REQUIREMENTS?
Managing allergens within menu planning is crucial for ensuring the safety and satisfaction of all diners.
The University of Birmingham addresses this by offering inclusive options for various dietary needs, clearly communicating allergen information, and regularly updating menus to reflect new trends and data. By prioritising allergen management, you can create a safer and more inclusive dining experience for all your customers. With Eat Curious products we have a clear definition of ingredients and nutritional values, which assists us on implementing a great variety, health conscious, sustainable and tasty dishes. Eat Curious products are also free from the 14 major allergens. This inclusivity ensure that all students, regardless of their dietary needs, can enjoy safe and nutritious meals on campus.
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Overall, Eat Curious products provide a practical and economical solution for our operations, helping to manage costs while offering high-quality, allergen-free, and sustainable food options. By choosing Eat Curious products, universities can help support a company that priorities sustainable practices. This can enhance the institution’s reputation and demonstrate a commitment to social responsibility. Eat Curious products can help achieve sustainability, inclusivity, and health goals, whilst also providing convenient and cost-effective dining solutions.
