Harvest Fest at UNH

The UNH office of substainability hosted a "Local Harvest Dinner" last night, serving almost 2000 visitors and students. We were amazed at their commitment to local foods and the many varieties that were offered. Among our teas, they served Apricot Peach, Sencha Berry Melon, and Antarctica. It was a great honor to participate and meet the people who have been enjoying our tea on campus. Though there were many local food producers (I ate the most delicous apple I ever tasted), the smells from our display table attracted many students and facilty alike.

One observation: this wasn't my cafeteria growing up. University campuses are catering to students as royalty. The event was held at the "older" Stillings dining hall, which is a step below Holloway Commons. Both are quite posh and are more likened to an international self serve buffet. Fresh foods, stir fry, brick oven pizza, made to order crepes and omelettes all made to order by chefs. Amazingly, this is becoming the trend in food service on campuses across the country. One unconfirmed report was that UVM's dining hall will flash freeze food on the spot for takeaways. Phillips Exeter Academy's dining service ( a high school, mind you ) is equally remarkable, worthy of taking a romantic dinner with your spouse (if you don't mind being surrounded by a very young and international clientele). Is it character they are building or consumerism? We can debate that over a brisk Gazpacho.