College students are asking for Mediterranean food, customized meals, and gluten-free options in 2011, according to foodservice provider Sodexo. The company holds taste-tests and consults with chefs and vendor partners to develop the list of foods expected to appear on college menus in the upcoming school year.
There’s also a shift towards integrating technology into food orders. Sodexo is testing apps that allow students to check out the menu, order, pay remotely and pick up their meals in person.
Food preferences vary by region, according to the company. Students attending school in the South Central U.S. enjoy vegan fare and pita with hummus. Students in the Midwest favor Thai, Asian, and Latino fusion as well as fresh avocado. The Northwest tends to enjoy local seafood and fresh fruit. Vietnamese and Spanish-style tapas are preferred by students in the Mid-Atlantic region, while those in the Southeast like local, sustainable seafood and produce, and Southwest students favor homemade California rolls and custom Asian cuisine. [Food/Beverage]
Source: Sodexo, Monica Zimmer, 9801 Washingtonian Blvd., Gaithersburg, MD 20878; 301-987-4461; monica.zimmer@sodexo.com; www.sodexousa.com.
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