The Food Factor

Food purchases and food waste have an impact on sustainability, so think carefully about your food choices.

• Eat lower on the food chain, i.e., less meat and more vegetables.
• Take only what you can eat!
• When you take leftovers home, eat them.
• Buy local, organic foods and avoid those that are genetically modified. For example, ask for organic or Fair Trade coffees (available in many residential cafés). The production of these coffees protect local economies and the environment.
• Instead of throwaways, choose a reusable water bottle.
• Support local farmers' markets and food co-ops. This reduces transportation costs and helps the local economy.
• Residential Dining Services (RDS) offers many vegetarian options, is working on increasing organic and locally grown options, and is collecting pre-consumer food waste for composting. Learn more about green dining programs at the U-M.