The Power of Protein in Campus Dining
As our Protein+® pasta rolls out into the campus dining segment, we’re learning a lot about today’s student population and their eating habits and interests. With each pop-up we do on campuses across the country from Boston to Clemson, West Point to Mizzou, a few key themes are emerging. Consider these little bites of data we collected first-hand from the students:
1) Students are an active group – almost 80% report exercising at least 2x per week.*
While athletic dining is a natural home for high-protein meals, the rest of the student population may be just as interested in fueling their active lifestyles.
2) Over 87% of the students surveyed agreed that they are looking to add more protein to their diets.
This tracks with studies of the general population, with protein continuing to expand its hold as the nutrient most people are trying to consume more of. The fact that it’s even higher for this younger audience means offering and marketing high-protein meals is a winning proposition for campus dining.
3) Students love pasta! Over 2/3 said they eat pasta at least once a week.
If you’re a campus dining operator reading this, we’re guessing this syncs up with your experience. As a universal comfort food that’s food-cost friendly, pasta is a must-have on the campus dining menu. Letting the popularity and versatility of pasta help balance your food costs is key, and can even take pressure – and shift sustainability concerns - away from expensive animal proteins.
4) What would have students reach for pasta more often? Pasta with added protein, like Barilla Protein+.
“The impact of protein in driving healthy choices on campus is undeniable,” says our own Michele Lefebvre, Nutrition and Wellbeing Manager for Barilla America. “When you can offer it in a format that’s comforting and approachable, and easy on operations, it’s a clear win. That’s where our C&U partners are finding success with Protein+ pasta."
For samples, recipes or more information about Protein+ pasta – now available in bulk for foodservice – click here.