Student eating habits have not dramatically changed despite a greater awareness of health and wellness, according to Alex Harvey, founder of The Student Food Project. He noted that any shifts are primarily seen among students who are financially able to make them.
Harvey, whose project provides online recipes and runs cookery workshops, highlighted the financial strain on current undergraduates. He stated that around 40% of respondents to the project's Student Food Survey have reported going to bed hungry or skipping meals because they could not afford food.
Despite these pressures, many traditional student staples remain popular, with pesto pasta still topping the list. Universities are also increasingly incorporating food into their wellbeing programmes, aiming to equip students with cooking skills to save money, promote health, and foster social connections.