Purchasing

The 700 cases of paper towels used annually contain a minimum of 90% recycled fiber with a minimum of 40% post-consumer recycled fiber.
The 1500 cases of dinner napkins and the 600 cases of cocktail napkins used annually contain a minimum of 95% recycled fiber.
We only purchase fish and seafood meeting the “best choices” or “good alternatives” categories for sustainability as determined by Monterrey Bay Northeast Sustainable Seafood Guide January 2011 - this includes sushi, too!
Many products, including ketchup and pickles, are purchased in light weight pouch packages that use less material than traditional packaging. This reduces the amount of waste and saves fuel during shipping.
Through a special arrangement with our suppliers, retail locations offer fair trade shade grown organic coffee at the same price as traditional coffee.
Dining halls serve only Rainforest Alliance certified coffee that is produced using environmentally friendly methods.
Convenience Shops have switched their retail inventory of light bulbs from incandescent to compact fluorescent bulbs.
We evaluate the manufacturer packaging of all products. Many suppliers, including Pepsi and Frito Lay, reuse packaging in which their products are delivered.
We require suppliers to pick up and reuse wood shipping pallets.
We use bio-diesel fuels in all diesel powered vehicles and purchase new vehicles that utilize alternative fuels including Compressed Natural Gas.
Most poultry products, dairy products and breads all come from within 150 miles of campus.
A large percentage of menu ingredients come from local producers which lessens the carbon footprint and energy usage involved in shipping.