The University of Manchester hosted a Sustainable Food Fair on 11 February in the foyer of the Nancy Rothwell Building. The event formed part of the University’s commitment to environmental sustainability and responsible consumption. Staff and students were invited to meet organisations who are working to improve sustainability within food and drink supply chains. 

A range of exhibitors attended the fair. Redbull, spoke to visitors about how they are working to support circular economy principles through the full lifecycle of their cans. 

One Water, a life-changing bottled water brand, funds clean water projects around the world. Every bottle purchased contributes to providing clean drinking water in developing countries.  

Another exhibitor was VegBox, an organisation that emphasises the importance of choosing locally sourced produce. The organisation partners with our university frequently, and you can in fact pick up fruits and vegetables from The Place café in University Place every Tuesday. Vytal, who source our very own Bee Cup, also attended the fair.  

The event provided an opportunity for passionate students to spark lively conversations around ethical practices directly to suppliers prioritizing sustainability.  

Imogen Yeung, one of the event organisers reflected that: “It was a huge success, and it was great to see how many people attended! The suppliers felt that students and staff really engaged with them and were asking the tough questions about their sustainability practices, showing the passion for ethical and sustainable suppliers.”  

As we continue to make our campus a more sustainable place, we encourage members of the University community to make use of the sustainable options on offer. From using our re-usable cups and bowls, to choosing locally sourced food initiatives, every action matters.  

Watch this short video made by UniCafé to find out more about the event.  

For more information around sustainable food initiatives at The University of Manchester, contact es@manchester.ac.uk.