Wellness & Nutrition

Nutrition Information

The foods you eat can have a major impact on how you feel: a healthy meal plan can help increase energy levels, as well as affect your mood and help you deal with the pressures and stresses of being a student. It is important to take some time and consider the foods you are eating. The food served by Rice University chefs is 95 percent from scratch and prepared with student-health in mind.

Plate Method

The Plate Method offers an easy way to visualize a healthy lunch or dinner without having to count calories. It emphasizes the idea that “all foods can fit” as long as they are eaten in proper proportions. Posters of this method are present in the campus serveries to serve as reminders for students.

Allergy Awareness

FAAN (The Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network) is the most trusted source of information, programs and resources related to food allergy and anaphylaxis. FAAN serves as the communication link between the patient and others. Each Senior Operations Manager and Executive Chef in the serveries and kitchens are available to discuss any concerns related to food or food preparations.

Nutrition Help

The Rice Recreation and Wellness Center employs a nutritionist if students, faculty or staff desire specific nutritional guidance.

Food Allergens & Special Dietary Needs

Food Allergens & Special Dietary Considerations: We prioritize the safety and well-being of our students and staff. While our kitchens and serveries are not completely allergen-free, we diligently strive to maintain the careful separation of ingredients during preparation. Each menu item is clearly labeled with the Big 9 food allergens, making it easier for you to make informed choices. West & Seibel Serveries offer a dedicated sauté station that is free from the Big 9 food allergens, ensuring a safer dining option for those with specific dietary restrictions. For personalized guidance, please consult with the on-duty chef or manager. To schedule a meeting with our registered dietitian for more tailored dietary support, please complete this form: Connect With Clare: The Registered Dietitian for Rice Dining

Halal & Kosher Dining

Our commitment to inclusivity is reflected in our daily offerings. Halal-certified meats are prepared fresh and are available at all serveries. During Ramadan, we extend meal times at select serveries, as needed, to support those observing the fast. Additionally, breakfast and snack items are available for pickup at dinner during Ramadan.

Kosher meals may be arranged by emailing us at dining@rice.edu for more information. We coordinate wit ha local restaurant that delivers freshly prepared meals to campus. A special menu is available during Passover as well.

Weekly menus

Our talented chefs create diverse and exciting menus for each servery on a weekly basis. We aim to provide the most accurate and current information regarding meal offerings. However, please be aware that menus may change due to factors like seasonal availability, sourcing challenges, and shipping delays. We appreciate your understanding and flexibility as we strive to offer the best dining experience possible.

Sustainability

We are committed to leading the way in sustainable dining by incorporating innovative and responsible practices. Our dining services prioritize: Plant-Forward Focus:

We embrace a plant-forward culinary approach, emphasizing the use of fresh vegetables, grains, and legumes to create delicious and nutritious meals. Baker Kitchen partners with the Betty and Jacob Friedman Holistic Garden on campus to highlight the produce on the weekly menus.

Responsible Sourcing: We are dedicated to sourcing our ingredients responsibly, favoring local or regional when possible and trusted suppliers who share our commitment to sustainable practices.

Eco-Friendly Disposables: To minimize waste, we provide eco-friendly disposables that are compostable or recyclable. We actively seek alternatives to single-use plastics to ensure that our dining operations contribute positively to environmental conservation.

Composting Initiatives: Currently we partner with Moonshot Compost for our comprehensive composting program designed to divert organic waste from landfills, turning food scraps into nourishing compost for local gardens and farms. This initiative supports a circular food system and enriches the soil, promoting a healthier planet.