Carrots, cauliflower and celery, oh my. How dull and tasteless must the life of a vegetarian be, especially when eating within the bounds of on-campus dining. This seems to be a common misconception, for the fruitful (both literally and figuratively) pleasures of veggie-eating at Boise State are as healthy as can be. This year, Boise State makes its debut, as 2008 marks the first time the school has been nominated, as one of the most vegetarian-friendly colleges according to Peta2's annual list. Peta2, the world's largest youth animal rights organization, branches off the well-known and respected People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) activist group. For three years, Peta2 has made a commitment to its concerned population of vegetarians, vegans and other supporters to search out noteworthy educational institutions that exemplify alternative eating. Each considered school must meet special standards to make the grade, and are then placed in competition with the other healthy-eating colleges. Boise State has been recognized for the innovative and tasty efforts that have come to fruition through the university's strides to fulfill the dietary standards of students who practice a vegetarian lifestyle. "Boise State University is showing its respect for students by offering them food choices that are good for their health, animals and the planet," Ryan Huling, a Peta2 representative, said. Cajun blackened tofu and garden veggie couscous are just a few entrees offered on campus that have created an uproar of joy from students who appreciate the benefits of having a delectable selection of healthy foods at their fingertips. "When it comes to serving great meatless options and teaching students a valuable lesson in nutrition and compassion, BSU is in the running for vegan valedictorian," Huling said. Other schools in the running for the coveted 2008 title are University of Montana, Northwestern University and the University of Oregon. To view the entire list of the 32 U.S. and 16 Canadian colleges and universities that were nominated, and to magnify your eating influence by casting your Bronco vote, visit peta2.com/College. The schools with the most votes will be announced later this month and each will receive a certificate to display in their dining hall. Vegetarians Table Rock Café respects the students and faculty who do not wish to consume meat and instead offers them a complete, specialized menu of tasty items including eggplant parmesan casserole and broccoli mushroom strata. Other vegetarian campus hot spots are the salad stylings of Greens to Go in the Student Union Building food court and the Interactive Learning Center, where you can sink your teeth into a black bean veggie burger. Vegans Many of the vegetarian meals available at Table Rock coincide with vegan eating, minus the dairy and meat byproducts associated with the food item. House favorites are vegan grilled barbecue tofu and fried tofu sweet and sour. Grille Works is also a great place to have a vegan lunch. Pick up a grilled veggie pita or a grilled portabella mushroom sandwich and you're good to go. Religious Dieters There are a variety of religions that call for adherence to specific eating traditions and the following of a strict diet. Many on-campus meals can be altered if the entrée doesn't live up to theocratic standards as it is. For example, people who practice the Islamic tradition of abstaining from pork can trade out the swine-based meat for a portabella mushroom counterpart in their burrito from Zoca in the ILC. Diabetics Research has proven that by limiting or completely eliminating the consumption of animal products, the risk for heart attacks and diabetes decreases greatly. In this sense, the presence of healthy options surrounding people with dietary conditions represents a priceless influence. Not only are people more likely to eat well, but when they're in the mood for something sweet, Freshens Frozen Treats in the SUB has some sensible, low fat options.
Spring Break
Viewing Comments 1 - 4 of 4
Katrina Arkwright
posted 3/10/09 @ 11:05 PM MST
Wait for next writes!
Penny Jackson
posted 3/11/09 @ 3:19 AM MST
Good and interesting article, thanks!
Katrina Arkwright
posted 3/12/09 @ 5:23 AM MST
I have to agree with teh poster above... :/ looks like a lot of hot air to me.
Courtney Shakeshaft
posted 3/15/09 @ 7:59 AM MST
wow, this brings back some great memories! it seems like just yesterday i was watching all of these great shows, and more great shows. this homecoming theme has been so much fun!
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