Sustainable Food Practices at Iowa
Discover how the University of Iowa supports sustainable food systems through campus initiatives, local food sourcing, the student garden, food pantry programs, and other efforts that promote environmental responsibility and student well-being.
Local Food
The University of Iowa supports local food by partnering with regional farms and vendors to bring fresh, seasonal ingredients to campus dining. Sourcing locally not only reduces the environmental impact of transportation but also strengthens the local economy and connects the campus community to the region’s agricultural roots.
20+ Local Farms
University of Iowa Dining uses fresh food from over 20 local farmers
Campus Dining
The University of Iowa is committed to sustainable dining through a variety of initiatives that reduce waste and conserve resources. These efforts include the use of reusable dishware, trayless dining, and food donation programs that redirect surplus food to local organizations. Composting is actively practiced to divert food waste from landfills, and water-saving technologies are integrated into dishwashing operations. Together, these practices support a more environmentally responsible campus dining experience.
Reusable Dishware
University Dining Market Places use washable dishware and utensils, reducing waste associated with disposable serviceware.
Hawkeye Meal Share Donations
Help fight food insecurity by donating unused guest meal swipes to the Hawkeye Meal Share program
Food Donation
University Dining donates leftover food that meets donation safety requirements to Table to Table, a local food rescue group.
Composting
University Dining collects food scraps from meal preparation (e.g., bones, peels) and uneaten food left on plates which is sent to the Iowa City Compost Facility.
Micro Garden
Burge Market Place has a new hydroponic garden system to grow its own herbs, lettuces, and other greens.
Reusable To-Go Program
All Market Places have reusable to-go containers that are included in with meal plans. Take your food to go, then bring back the container when finished.
Trayless Dining
The University removed trays from all Market Place dining halls which reduces food waste by preventing diners from taking more than they can eat.
Water Conservation
Trayless dining reduces water consumption by eliminating the need to wash trays and dishwashing machines with food pulpers help reduce water used for rinsing plates.
Other Food Initiatives
Student Garden
Formed in Spring 2009, the 1/3-acre University of Iowa Student Garden provides an educational model that addresses environmental, social, cultural, and economic issues that affect our contemporary food system. The student org, D.I.R.T., manages the Student Garden.
Food Pantry at Iowa
The Food Pantry at Iowa provides free nutritious food and basic necessities for University of Iowa students, graduate and professional students, postdocs, staff, and faculty. Donations of food or hygiene products are welcome.
Composting
The University of Iowa began composting in 2007, thanks to a group of undergraduate engineering students, the City of Iowa City, University Housing & Dining, Facilities Management, and many other partners.